Ghana must lead AfCFTA by example, not just host Secretariat

Ghana has been urged to take a commanding role in demonstrating the tangible benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), as the government moves to position the country as a hub for intra-African trade and industrial expansion.

Speaking on the second day of the Kwahu Business Forum at Mpraeso in the Eastern Region, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, emphasized that Ghana’s status as host of the AfCFTA Secretariat carries a unique responsibility. She noted that Accra must translate policy commitments into concrete outcomes for businesses across the continent.

“Underpinning all of this is our Africa Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat. Ghana carries a particular responsibility to demonstrate what intra-African trade can deliver in practice,” Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare told participants.

The Minister stressed that Ghana must set the pace by showcasing how removing trade barriers can drive economic transformation. She revealed that government efforts are currently focused on equipping local enterprises with the necessary tools to compete effectively within the continental market.

“We are working to ensure that Ghanaian enterprises, as well as businesses, have access to rules of origin certification, tariff intelligence, and market linkages necessary to compete and win in the continental market,” she added.

Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare linked the strategy to broader plans to revamp special economic zones into active industrial ecosystems. She highlighted a particular emphasis on agro-processing and light manufacturing to enhance export competitiveness within Africa.

However, the Minister issued a strong caveat, warning that no policy would succeed without proactive private sector participation.

“No policies will deliver their ultimate intended outcome and aspirations without a private sector participation which is prepared to meet the government’s enabling environment with deliberate investment in technology, skills, governance, and standard compliance,” she stated.

The Kwahu Business Forum continues to serve as a platform for dialogue between policymakers and the business community as Ghana seeks to leverage the AfCFTA for job creation and industrial growth.