PR & COMMS UPDATES – MOTAI
At the opening of the Africa Trade Summit 2026 in Accra, Ghana strongly urged African countries to develop resilient trade institutions, increase value addition and extension, and speed up industrialisation.
Speaking during the event on Tuesday, July 18, 2025, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, emphasised concerted action between governments, investors, and the private sector, stating that the Summit marked a new phase in Africa’s economic transition.
She emphasised that the government’s 24-Hour Economy plan, which aims to increase productivity, create jobs, improve service efficiency, and establish Ghana as a hub for continuous manufacturing, is the cornerstone of the country’s new economic strategy.
Citing advancements in the processing of cocoa, cashew, shea, palm oil, coconut, and cassava, the Minister further emphasised the significance of value extension and addition.
Hon. Ofosu-Adjare cited significant advancements in trade infrastructure, such as the continuing modernisation at Takoradi Port and the commissioning of Phases 1 and 2 of the Tema Port Expansion Project.
She emphasised Ghana’s early success in directed trade and its strategic access to a 1.3 billion-person continental market while reiterating the country’s strong commitment to the AfCFTA.
She called on financial institutions and development partners to provide Africa with long-term industrial finance that boosts productive capacity and value chains.
On behalf of the Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff Hon. Nana Oye Bampoe Addo announced a $30.8 billion infrastructure program, increased support for regional industries and agriculture value chains, and the elimination of the E-Levy, Betting Tax, and Covid-19 Levy to promote economic growth.
The chairman of the Africa Trade Chamber Advisory Board, Sir Sam Jonah, warned that Africa cannot simply admire Asia’s success without imitating its tactics and urged African countries to enact bold reforms, prioritise manufacturing, fortify institutions, and lessen reliance on raw commodity exports.
The founder of the African Trade Chamber, Madam Benidicta Lasi, guaranteed attendees that the three-day event will be a success while providing an overview of the 2026 Africa Trade Summit and Awards.
Source: newsthemegh.com