15th May 2026
Ghana’s Deputy Trade Minister, Sampson Ahi, has urged African countries to drive economic transformation through trade integration, industrialisation, agribusiness expansion, and innovation, while emphasizing the need for ethical leadership and accountability.
Speaking at the 2026 Let Africa Go Conference in Akwapim Mampong, Ahi described the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a major opportunity to boost intra-African trade, create jobs, and strengthen economic growth through a unified continental market.
He stressed that Africa should shift away from narratives of poverty and instead leverage its youthful population, natural resources, and entrepreneurial capacity to accelerate development. However, he warned that economic growth without values and direction could become destructive rather than beneficial.
Also addressing the conference, Ahmed Ibrahim called for greater investment in digital technology, human capital, and stronger collaboration among African institutions. He also highlighted the role of faith-based organisations in supporting education and healthcare across the continent.