Ghana and Kenya took a significant step towards boosting economic cooperation with a dedicated Business Forum held on April 3rd, 2024. The event, organized alongside Kenyan President Dr. William Ruto’s state visit to Ghana, underscored a shared commitment to driving investment and intra-African trade.
Both presidents, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana and Dr. Ruto of Kenya, emphasized the importance of stronger business ties. President Akufo-Addo highlighted the need for collaboration and urged business communities to leverage policy frameworks for economic growth. He also championed Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education to equip African youth with in-demand skills.
President Ruto echoed the strong bond between the nations and pledged Kenya’s continued efforts to strengthen relations. He encouraged African businesses to explore partnerships and opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to unlock intra-African trade potential.
The forum’s panel discussions delved into specific areas for collaboration, including trade and investment opportunities, the Guided Trade Initiative, and potential partnerships in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, technology, and energy sectors.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong of Ghana expressed hope that the forum would be a springboard for deeper trade and investment ties. He highlighted Ghana’s openness to collaboration in areas like marine and mineral resource development.
Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Investment Promotion, Abubakar Hassan Abubakar, mirrored Ghana’s enthusiasm and emphasized Kenya’s policies designed to facilitate increased trade. He anticipated new partnerships emerging to drive economic advancement in both countries.
The forum concluded with the signing of four Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between key institutions. These included partnerships between educational institutions, investment promotion agencies, and chambers of commerce from both nations.
Senior government officials, diplomats, and business leaders from Ghana and Kenya attended the forum, fostering a platform for networking and potential collaboration. A trade exhibition further complemented the event, providing opportunities for businesses to forge new partnerships and explore trade prospects.