Ghana has become the first African country to sign an Accelerated Patent Grant (APG) arrangement with the United States, a landmark agreement that promises to dramatically reduce patent processing times and position the West African nation as a hub for innovation on the continent.

The agreement was signed on July 9, 2026, in Geneva by Under Secretary of Commerce and United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Director John A. Squires and Ghana’s Registrar-General, Grace Issahaque, on the margins of the annual meeting of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

How the Fast-Track System Works

Under the APG process, an eligible patent applicant who has already been granted a U.S. patent by the USPTO may request that Ghana’s intellectual property office (GHIPO) grant a corresponding patent on a pending Ghanaian application.

This work-sharing arrangement, which will remain in effect for five years from the date of signing, is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of Ghana’s patent examination process by reducing processing time while maintaining the country’s intellectual property standards.

The agreement with Ghana is the tenth such arrangement signed by the USPTO and a partner intellectual property office, but marks a historic first for the African continent.

A Commitment to Africa

“The USPTO is committed to building its relationships with IP offices in Africa,” said Under Secretary Squires in a statement on the USPTO website. “With the signing of this agreement with Ghana we are building on that commitment, which took a big step forward last year with the installation of the USPTO’s first-ever intellectual property attaché for the region, Katherine Hiner, in Johannesburg, South Africa”.

That appointment, in 2025, signaled Washington’s growing focus on intellectual property protection across the continent. Hiner, who attended the signing ceremony, detailed the broader role the USPTO can play in empowering creators in Africa.

“In today’s global marketplace, rights holders need to have good, consistent laws that protect IP across borders,” she said, adding that “this includes recruiting and training staff, procurement of the necessary equipment, ongoing review of procedures, and facilitating an open dialogue with rights holders in their markets”.

A Growing Economy, A Strategic Partner

With a gross domestic product of $114 billion in 2025, Ghana is one of the faster-growing economies in Africa.

The agreement reflects the deep economic ties between the two nations. In 2024, according to WIPO, 33 per cent of foreign patent applications in Ghana originated with U.S.-based filers, underscoring the strategic importance of the partnership.

Beyond Patents: Protecting Creators

The signing ceremony took place alongside a WIPO Assemblies side event co-hosted by the U.S. Mission and Universal Music Group titled “IP for Growth Initiative.”

The event featured a livestreamed panel discussion and performance with African musicians and U.S. artist John Legend, highlighting the agreement’s implications beyond traditional industries—extending to the protection of artists, musicians, and creators in Ghana’s burgeoning creative economy.

Guidelines describing GHIPO’s implementation of the program and the process for how U.S. patent holders can take advantage of the arrangement will soon be available on GHIPO’s website.

Wisconsin’s top official leads trade mission to Accra as Ghana declares economy ‘back on track’ after IMF program exit.

When Governor Tony Evers of Wisconsin touched down in Accra this week, he wasn’t just representing America’s Dairyland—he was signalling a new era of state-level economic diplomacy between the United States and Ghana.

The Governor, leading a high-level business delegation, met with President John Dramani Mahama at the Presidency on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in what both sides described as a pivotal moment for deepening trade, investment and agricultural partnerships between Wisconsin and the West African nation.

The visit comes at a strategic moment. Just two months ago, in May 2026, Ghana officially concluded its Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme with the International Monetary Fund, exiting the financial bailout ahead of schedule. Gross international reserves have reached approximately US$14.5 billion, representing nearly six months of import cover and strengthening the country’s ability to withstand external economic shocks.

President Mahama used the meeting to declare that Ghana’s economy is “back on track” and that the country is “open for business.”

A New Model of Engagement

The meeting represents a growing trend of US state-level engagement with African economies, moving beyond traditional federal diplomacy. Governor Evers’ visit forms part of Wisconsin’s broader strategy to strengthen international trade relations by promoting exports from the state and creating new opportunities for businesses to expand globally.

“The trade mission was critical and intended to build on global partnerships and promote Wisconsin as a place where companies could grow their businesses,” Governor Evers said during the meeting.

The delegation’s visit is expected to promote greater collaboration between Ghana and Wisconsin in trade, investment and other areas of shared economic interest.

Ghana’s Economic Transformation Agenda

President Mahama outlined several key government initiatives designed to transform Ghana’s economic landscape into a competitive, export-driven hub.

Central to this agenda is the 24-Hour Economy program, which the President described as a flagship policy designed to increase production, promote manufacturing, industrialisation and create sustainable jobs for Ghanaians.

The President also disclosed the establishment of an Accelerated Export Development Advisory Committee to drive Ghana’s transition into an export-oriented economy capable of competing effectively in international markets.

Agricultural Partnerships in Focus

President Mahama specifically expressed Ghana’s keen interest in forging deep agricultural partnerships with Wisconsin, a state renowned for its strong agri-business and manufacturing base.

“Ghana is ready to explore new business opportunities that would create value for both economies,” the President said, noting that such collaborations could support economic growth and create mutual opportunities for businesses in both jurisdictions.

The discussions also covered Ghana’s policies to expand access to education and develop the skilled workforce required to support the country’s industrialisation and long-term economic growth.

Strategic Timing

The timing of Governor Evers’ visit is significant. Ghana recently completed its 36-month reform program supported by a US$3 billion loan from the IMF, with the government announcing it does not plan to seek another bailout in the foreseeable future.

Instead, Ghana will adopt a three-year IMF monitoring arrangement without new financing, running through 2029.

The meeting highlights growing international confidence in Ghana’s economic trajectory following the successful completion of the IMF programme.

Building on Existing Ties

The engagement reflects the growing role of state-level partnerships in promoting stronger ties between Ghana and the United States. Such collaborations often provide opportunities for institutions, businesses and communities to share expertise and develop initiatives that benefit citizens.

Notably, Wisconsin already has economic ties with Ghana. Niche Cocoa Industry Ltd., the largest cocoa processor in Ghana, operates its North American manufacturing facility in Franklin, Wisconsin. This existing relationship provides a foundation for expanded cooperation.

Key Officials Present

The meeting was attended by several senior Ghanaian officials, including Madam Marietta Agyeiwaa Brew, Senior Legal Advisor to the President; Mr Victor Smith, Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States; and Madam Khadija Iddrisu, Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

President Mahama reassured the delegation that Ghana remains fully open for business and stands ready to enter into enduring partnerships that deliver shared prosperity for both nations.

The visit is expected to further deepen conversations around possible areas of cooperation between Wisconsin and Ghana while promoting stronger connections between the people of both jurisdictions.

These are the top newspaper headlines from Ghanaian newspapers on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

WONTUMI CONVICTION DOMINATES FRONT PAGES

The conviction and sentencing of NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) and Akonta Mining Company Limited over illegal mining dominates front pages across nearly every major newspaper, with political figures and legal teams weighing in on the landmark judgment.

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The Metro Lens leads with “Wontumi Fights Back!” on Page 8, reporting that Bernard Antwi-Boasiako’s lawyers have lined up 20 grounds to crush the sentence.

The Custodian declares “Wontumi’s Sentence Is Justice Turned Upside Down” on Page 2, with MP Kojo Oppong Nkrumah quoted saying “We’ll Fight For Justice For Wontumi.” Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin also vows to battle the conviction.

Daily Gist reports “Atta Akyea Unveils 20 Grounds To Overturn Wontumi’s Conviction” on Page 4, as the legal team prepares its Supreme Court challenge.

The Ghanaian Publisher runs “Wontumi Jailed Unfairly – Minority” as its lead story, with the Minority caucus declaring a legal battle over constitutional questions and corporate liability.

The Informer takes a critical look with “NPP Falls On Own Dagger!” on Page 5, presenting a chronology of events and questions that refuse to go away.

Republic Press reports “Wontumi Conviction: Akyea Vows To Overturn Jail Term” on Page 3, with the MP stating the judgment has no legal or evidential foundation.

The Source quotes KON: “Wontumi Case: Govt Weaponising Courts Against Rivals” on Page 3.

Insight reports that Lands and Mines Watch Ghana has welcomed the Wontumi verdict and is urging tougher action against illegal mining, while also covering exclusive comments from the new Russian Ambassador Andrei Ordash outlining a new era of Ghana-Russia relations.

Daily Analyst reports “Wontumi Chose Trial Over Plea Bargain” on its front page, alongside coverage of the Speaker’s caution to MPs over unauthorized police escorts and sirens.

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GOLD SECTOR & MINING

Insight leads with “World Gold Council Commits US$250,000 Grant To Ghana’s Responsible Small-Scale Mining Programme To Fight Illegal Gold Trade,” reporting that the government secured an initial US$250,000 development grant as part of a broader US$1 million package to support responsible artisanal and small-scale gold mining.

The Chronicle reports “GoldBod To Procure A Gold Traceability System Next Month,” with CEO Sammy Gyamfi announcing the initiative.

Daily Guide covers “Parliament Assesses GoldBod’s $16.11bn Gold Trade,” featuring MPs in a group picture with Sammy Gyamfi.

Business & Financial Times reports “Falling mining prices drag producer inflation to 3.5% in June” on its front page.

The Ghanaian Times covers “Govt, World Gold Council partner to boost responsible mining” on Page 13.

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OFORI-ATTA / OSP SAGA

Daily Analyst leads with “Ofori-Atta still a fugitive – OSP tells US Immigration Judge,” reporting that Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has told a US Immigration Judge that Ken Ofori-Atta remains a fugitive, with Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Srem-Sai replying to the NPP on the matter.

The Informer reports “OSP Denounces US Court Ruling On Ofori-Atta,” stating the OSP’s case is not before any immigration court.

Republic Press covers “OSP Defends Case Against Ofori-Atta,” reporting that a US Judge has poked holes in the case while the government goes on a borrowing spree after IMF exit, according to Oppong Nkrumah.

Daily Guide leads with “Ofori-Atta Still Facing Criminal Charges – OSP” on its front page.

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NPA SCANDAL

The Metro Lens reports “NPA Rejects Reports of GH₵78.6m Scandal, Says Auditor-General Found No Financial Loss,” quoting the NPA Boss.

The News Centa reveals “NPA’s Failures: Contaminated Fuel Sold To Consumers,” reporting that 87.3 million litres of petrol mixed with water were sold to consumers without NPA quality checks, according to the Auditor-General. The front page features Tamelak, CEO of NPA, and Godwin Eduzzi.

Daily Gist reports “NPA Rejects GH₵78.6m Rot Claims, Defends Audit Findings” on Page 2.

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APOSTLE SAFO FUNERAL

Supreme Newspaper reports “Final Preparations Reach Climax for Apostle Emeritus Prof. Ing. Kwadwo Safo’s State-Scale Farewell” on Page 3, covering the final preparations to accord the revered inventor, technologist, farmer and philanthropist a befitting farewell.

The Daily Statesman leads with “Final preparations underway for Apostle Safo’s funeral” on its front page.

The Chronicle reports “Final Preparations Peak For Apostle Kwadwo Safo’s State-Scale Funeral” on its front page.

Daily Gist covers “Apostle Kwadwo Safo Funeral Preparations Reach Climax” on Page 3.

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PARLIAMENT & GOVERNANCE

Daily Graphic leads with “No sirens without approval – Cabinet directs MPs, public” and “Police restricts police escorts,” reporting that Cabinet has directed that no individual or group can install or use police escort services without written authorization from the Interior Minister or IGP.

The New Publisher reports “Speaker Orders MPs: Surrender Your Sirens & Police Escorts” on its front page.

Daily Analyst covers “Speaker cautions MPs against unauthorised police escorts, sirens” on its front page.

The Ghanaian Publisher reports “Bagbin Orders MPs To Get Escort Approval” on Page 3.

The Metro Lens crowns “Annoh-Dompreh Crowned Best-Performing MP with 98% Approval Rating” on Page 8, featuring Frank Annor-Dompreh, MP for Nsawam Adoagyiri.

Supreme Newspaper reports “Annoh-Dompreh Emerges Best-Performing Member of Parliament” on Page 6.

The Informer reports “Reshuffle Signals Quake Govt… As Appointees & Party Bigwigs Jostle for Positions” on Page 4.

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ECONOMY & FINANCE

Business & Financial Times leads with “Mid-year budget review: can poultry programme truly transform the sector?” and reports “PwC forecasts 12% policy rate by 2027” alongside “Absa Bank named Ghana’s Best Retail Bank at Euromoney Awards 2026.”

The Informer reports “Halt Tribunals Bill, Build Consensus First – Bawumia to Mahama” on Page 5.

Republic Press covers “Gov’t On Borrowing Spree After IMF Exit – Oppong Nkrumah” on its front page.

Daily Gist reports “9 Weeks After IMF Exit, NDC Returns For $1bn Loans – Oppong Nkrumah Reveals” on Page 2.

The Chronicle reports “Disinflation Era Over; But Economy Still Robust …Says Dr Asiamah” on its front page.

Daily Graphic features “Mid-year economic review must focus on revenue mobilisation – Economists” on Page 38.

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CRIME & SECURITY

The Informer reports “CID Uncovers Major Human Trafficking and Cybercrime Network” on Page 13.

Daily Guide reports “34 Fight, 28 Suspects Nabbed For Cybercrime, Human Trafficking, Off-We… Arms Deals” on Page 6.

The Chronicle reports “Driver Plots With Goons To Rob Master …Police Recover GH₵300,000” on Pages 2-3.

Daily Gist reports “Radio Gold DJ Docked For GH₵200k Land Fraud” on Page 2.

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HEALTH

Daily Graphic reports “Nation faces acute shortage of urologists – GAUS warns” on Page 13 and “Stigma blocking teens from reproductive health info – ARHR” on Page 14.

The News Centa reports “Nearly 1 in 3 Ghanaians living with HIV unaware of status – GAC” on Page 10.

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MEDIA & OTHER STORIES

Daily Analyst reports “GJA seeks members input to revamp Media Awards Ahead of Historic 30th Edition” on its front page.

Supreme Newspaper reports “NASPA Reviews Programme …After Personnel Raise Consultation Concerns” on Page 3 and “Prestige Group Partners Gov’t to Build Affordable Homes for Public Sector Workers” on Page 4.

Daily Gist reports “GH₵12.6m Scandal Rocks National Service – Service Personnel ‘Scammed'” on its front page.

The Daily Statesman reports “Takyi-Mensah seeks re-election as C/R NPP Secretary” and “Asare Baffour leads Ashanti NPP Youth Organiser race.”

The Ghanaian Times reports “Danger looms at Sunyani landfill site” on Page 12 and “Airport birds from nearby landfill pose threat to aircraft” on Page 12, plus “Nii Adamah Latse II: GAR House of Chiefs begins hearing six-year-old dispute on Ga Mantse” on Page 3.