Dr. Acheampong (L), Mrs. Acheampong (R) and other officials
President of Alternative Dispute Resolution Security and Research Institute, Dr. Maxwell Acheampong and his wife, Mrs. Abigail Acheampong, successfully represented Ghana at the 2nd Conference on Economic Growth in Atlantic Canada. The conference brought together experts to explore the transformative potential of innovation hubs in driving entrepreneurship and regional collaboration, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and partnership building.
Under the theme, “Innovation Hubs: Fostering Entrepreneurship and Cooperation Between Atlantic Canada and the Rest of the World,” the conference aims to strengthen Atlantic Canada’s connections with global markets, ultimately contributing to the region’s sustainable economic growth.
Through thoughtful discussions and strategic partnerships, the conference provided a platform for stakeholders to leverage innovation hubs as catalysts for economic development. By promoting trade, innovation, and collaboration, the event advanced initiatives that will drive sustainable growth and prosperity in Atlantic Canada.
Speaking at the conference, Dr. Maxwell Acheampong, stated that, Ghana’s economy is thriving across multiple sectors, including a robust energy industry, a growing manufacturing sector (particularly in building materials), and a strong focus on agriculture to achieve food security.
According to him, Atlantic Canada and Ghana can collaborate in agricultural technology to drive economic growth and enhance food security. “This partnership would leverage Atlantic Canada’s expertise in innovation and Ghana’s agricultural sector, which accounts for 20-30% of the country’s GDP,” he said.
Highlighting some key areas of cooperation, he mentioned that, it could include smart farming innovations, agri-business incubation hubs, joint research programmes, supply chain and logistics technology, and student and researcher exchanges.
“By working together, both regions can benefit from knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and market access,” he added.
Dr. Acheampong emphasised that the collaboration would not only foster entrepreneurship and economic growth but also contribute to global development, particularly in addressing food security challenges.
“To realise this potential, policy alignment, public-private partnerships, and educational diplomacy would be essential in facilitating trade delegations, co-investment ventures, and cross-continental research,” he noted.
Ghana’s educational system he said, has produced a talented pool of young professionals, and its diplomatic relations with Francophone countries, including the presence of French institutions like the Alliance Française, provide a unique advantage for partnerships.
He reiterated that, regarding global trade, Ghana is aware of the challenges posed by tariff issues and is eager to explore new markets and opportunities through partnerships with countries like Canada.
“By working together, Ghana aims to reduce the impact of trade tensions and capitalize on emerging opportunities for economic growth and development,” he said.
Mrs. Abigail Acheampong emphasized the significance of enhancing investor confidence, highlighting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a vital tool for safeguarding investments.
According to her, ADR provides a strategic approach to resolving disputes efficiently, thereby protecting investments and fostering a favorable business environment.
“By leveraging ADR, investors and businesses can benefit from efficient dispute resolution, reduced costs and time, enhanced confidentiality, and improved business continuity, ultimately contributing to a more stable and attractive investment climate,” she said.
Additionally, she highlighted that, ADR is cost-effective, characterised by lower legal fees, fewer procedural delays, and minimised opportunity costs.
“Furthermore, ADR proceedings maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive information, reducing public exposure and supporting long-term relationships. By leveraging ADR, investors and businesses can resolve disputes in a private and efficient manner, ultimately fostering a more favorable investment climate,” she noted.
By Janet Odei Amponsah