The dignitaries and participants in a pose after the event
Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, has stated that the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) has opened up new possibilities and set the path for unprecedented economic collaboration and integration.
As a result, he has urged Ghanaians to take this historic opportunity to mobilize resources and use capabilities to advance Ghana’s trade relations with its African partners to new heights.
Speaking at the Regional Conference and Stakeholder Engagement on the Implementation of the National Policy Framework and Action Plan for Boosting Ghana’s Trade with Africa on Friday in Koforidua, the Regional Capital, Mr. Acheampong said the plan provides the country with a clear road map, a blueprint for success, and a comprehensive strategy to navigate the complexities of regional trade.
He stressed the need of diversifying the country’s exports, increasing competitiveness, encouraging innovation, and removing the barriers to its participation in the African market.
He stated that the Eastern Region was uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role in realising the objectives of this policy framework, and that the region, with its strategic location, abundant natural resources, and vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, is poised to become a thriving hub of trade and commerce in the country.
According to Seth Acheampong, the regional conference served as a platform for key players to come together, exchange ideas, and chart a course of action to maximize the benefits of AfCFTA.
The Regional Minister urged all participants, including government officials, business leaders, academics, and members of civil society, to actively participate in meaningful debates and share their views and knowledge.
Dr. Fareed Arthur, the National Coordinator for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), emphasized that the stakeholder engagement was to gather participants’ opinions and to develop strategic measures to improve AfCFTA.
According to him, AfCFTA’s goal is to considerably enhance intra-Africa trade, notably trade in value-added products and commerce across all sectors of Africa’s economy, by eliminating trade obstacles in Africa.
From Daniel Bampoe, Koforidua-E/R