President Akufo-Addo (2nd from left) interacting with Gabby Okyere-Darko (left) at the summit
President Akufo-Addo has charged Africans to go beyond rhetoric and dialogue to develop concrete strategies for transformative change.
These dialogues, he said, must critically examine the private sector’s obligations and expectations, as well as demand same from the governmental sector to achieve the desired Africa.
This was when he addressed the opening ceremony of the second edition of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2024, at the Peduase Lodge, in the Eastern Region yesterday.
These conversations, the President said, should focus heavily on the development of sustainable farming practices and complemented with targeted investment and infrastructure for innovation and technology, especially in agribusiness and industry that boost production.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring the agriculture sector’s resilience in the face of global challenges and climate change.
“I am encouraged that Africa now has a private sector that is ready, deliberate and eager to see to the 60-year-old dream of a united Africa manifest,” he noted.
In order to unlock the full potential of trade for prosperity, he stressed the need to prioritise efficient transport and logistics infrastructure, expedite trade processes, and embrace digital technology.
He, therefore, urged stakeholders to strive diligently to promote cross-border transactions without relying on foreign currencies.
He also emphasised the importance of facilitating free movement of people, products, and services across the continent as outlined in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The President hailed the African Prosperity Dialogues as a worthwhile endeavour that aimed to promote understanding dialogue, and commitment to achieving the AfCFTA’s goals.
He applauded the organisers for their efforts in bringing together the high-profile resource persons and stakeholders, saying, “This will leave no one in doubt that this is a project that requires all the support we can muster.”
“The Network provides a unique platform dedicated to mobilising Africa’s energetic private sector to own and drive the fulfilment of the promises that the AfCFTA presents,” he said.
President Akufo-Addo urged participants to work hard to achieve the goals of the programme, citing the continent’s ability to industrialise, add value to raw materials, and invest in social, digital, economic, and physical infrastructure.
On his part, former President of Mozambique and Chairperson of the Africa Forum, Joaquim Alberto Chissano, talked of the need for the continent’s leaders to get together to discuss and find solutions to the development challenges hindering Africa’s growth.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Prosperity Network Secretariat, Njack Kane said the programme’s strategic objectives included facilitating comprehensive dialogue, promoting regional integration, prioritising inclusiveness, and providing a platform for sharing best practices.
The summit will feature thematic roundtable discussions, high-level sessions, and a Presidential Gala Dinner, culminating in a high-level Presidential Dialogue session.
Secretary-General of AfCFTA, Wamkele Mene, urged private businesses to take advantage of the opportunities offered under the initiative to expand their businesses.
The three-day programme being held on the theme: “Delivering Prosperity in Africa; Produce, Add Value, Trade,” aims to address key issues hindering Africa’s progress and chart a course towards a more prosperous and inclusive future.
By Charles Takyi-Boadu, Presidential Correspondent