Accra., Aug. 4, GNA – Region17Gh, a non-profit organisation aimed at mobilising Ghanaians abroad for national development, has been launched in Washington D.C.
Launched on Thursday, July 30, 2026, the initiative seeks to create a structured platform to harness the expertise, innovation, investments and global networks of the Ghanaian diaspora to support sustainable development across sectors.
A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency said Region17Gh would position the diaspora as a strategic partner in national development while strengthening connections between Ghana and its citizens worldwide.
Mr Victor Emmanuel Smith, Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, who was named Lifetime Patron of the organisation, said the diaspora had a critical role to play in Ghana’s transformation.
He said the initiative would provide a platform for meaningful engagement with Ghanaians living abroad and encourage their participation in national development.
“The strength of a nation is measured not only by its natural resources but also by its ability to harness the talents and expertise of its people wherever they may be.
“Every successful national transformation has been powered by partnership, government, private enterprise, civil society, academia and the diaspora.
“Region17Gh is an invitation to dream together, build together, invest together and rise together in pursuit of Ghana’s economic transformation,” he said.
Mrs Maabena Ohene-Kena Webb, Executive Director of Region17Gh, said the organisation was founded on the principles of trust, transparency, collaboration and measurable impact, with a focus on translating discussions into practical action.
She said the initiative was inspired by President John Mahama’s description of the Ghanaian diaspora as the country’s “17th Region” during the Diaspora Summit held in Accra.
Mrs Ohene-Kena Webb called on Ghanaians across the world to unite and contribute their expertise, resources, networks and talents towards Ghana’s socio-economic transformation.
The launch brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, US senators, members of the diplomatic corps, policymakers and development partners, who expressed support for stronger collaboration between Ghana and its citizens abroad.
Key personalities at the event included Mr Seth Terkper, Presidential Advisor on the Economy; Mr John Dumelo, Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture; and Senator Michael B. Mitchell.
Region17Gh is registered in the United States as a 501(c)(3) organisation, granting it federal tax-exempt status.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
Reporter: Ernest Nutsugah