Former President John Dramani Mahama has called on African nations to shift from exporting raw materials to producing and trading in value-added goods to maximize the continent’s economic potential.
Speaking at the 2025 Africa Prosperity Dialogues in Accra, President Mahama stressed the importance of this strategic transition, emphasizing that focusing on finished goods would enhance intra-African trade, reduce dependency on imports, and generate wealth for citizens.
The event, themed “Delivering Africa’s Single Market through Infrastructure: Invest, Connect and Integrate,” centered on improving trade ties across Africa to spur job creation, strengthen intercontinental business, and build a resilient economy.
During the closing ceremony, President Mahama underscored the necessity of capacity-building in trade and the creation of a conducive environment for private sector development. He urged African governments to support businesses as a means of tackling unemployment and enhancing the overall quality of life on the continent.
“Africa must prioritize investments in infrastructure and policies that encourage the production of finished goods while fostering private sector growth. This will drive employment and improve economic conditions,” he stated.
His remarks come at a pivotal time as the continent accelerates efforts to operationalize the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), positioning Africa as a stronger player in global commerce.
SOURCE: http://dew360.net
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