Africa Economic Forum’s Courtesy Visit to the Ghanaian High Commissioner: Strengthening Partnerships for a United African Economy

On the 14th of November, the Africa Economic Forum (AEF) paid a courtesy visit to the High Commissioner of Ghana to Nigeria, His Excellency Vice Admiral Seth Amoama, at the Ghanaian Embassy in Abuja, Nigeria. The meeting provided an avenue to deliberate on pressing issues central to Africa's economic transformation, emphasizing the critical importance of forging robust partnerships between the public and private sectors. 

The discussions were rooted in the recognition that the private sector serves as the engine of economic growth, propelling innovation, job creation, and sustainable development across the continent. By fostering closer collaboration between government institutions and private businesses, Africa can address persistent challenges and unlock new opportunities. Vice Admiral Amoama underscored this sentiment, highlighting that governments must take deliberate steps to support private enterprises by implementing favorable policies, developing infrastructure, and improving access to financing. Such measures create a fertile ground for businesses to thrive, thereby accelerating economic growth and fostering shared prosperity. 

The Proposal for an African Economic City

A major highlight of the visit was the discussion around establishing an African economic city in Accra, Ghana. This bold initiative, envisioned as a hub for intra-African trade and economic integration, has the potential to transform the way African countries interact economically. The proposed city aims to facilitate seamless trade, reduce barriers, and serve as a catalyst for regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). 

Beyond trade, the economic city would drive investment, innovation, and infrastructure development while creating jobs and improving livelihoods. By concentrating resources, skills, and industries in one location, this initiative could become a blueprint for economic hubs across Africa. Such hubs are essential for promoting genuine trade among African nations and reducing the continent's reliance on external markets. 

The High Commissioner expressed his enthusiasm for the proposal, recognizing its potential to redefine the dynamics of African trade. He emphasized the need for strong institutional frameworks and collaborative efforts to bring such an ambitious vision to fruition. 

Africans for Africa: A Call to Action

During the meeting, AEF reiterated its commitment to the concept of Africans for Africa—a call for Africans to take ownership of the continent’s development for the collective benefit of its people. This philosophy is grounded in the belief that Africa’s future lies in its ability to harness its resources, talents, and innovations to build a self-reliant and sustainable economy. 

The High Commissioner resonated with this vision, applauding AEF’s efforts to champion a pan-African approach to economic growth. He acknowledged the urgent need for African nations to collaborate and build ecosystems that prioritize homegrown solutions and foster regional solidarity. 

Looking Ahead: AEF’s Upcoming Kigali Conference

Another key topic discussed during the meeting was AEF’s upcoming conference in Kigali, Rwanda, titled "Bringing Finance and Healthcare Together: A New Era for Africa" This landmark event seeks to provide a platform for African leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and craft actionable solutions for some of the continent’s most pressing challenges. 

The High Commissioner lauded the conference's focus, emphasizing the interconnectedness of finance and healthcare in driving sustainable development. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives in bringing together diverse voices to address systemic issues while promoting shared responsibility and accountability. 

The Kigali conference aligns with AEF’s broader mission to foster collaboration across sectors and nations, creating a unified front to tackle Africa’s challenges. By leveraging the insights and expertise of leaders like Vice Admiral Amoama, AEF hopes to drive transformative change that benefits all Africans. 

Building Partnerships for a Brighter Future 

The courtesy visit concluded on a note of optimism and mutual commitment to advancing Africa’s economic agenda. Both AEF and the High Commissioner emphasized the critical role of partnerships in unlocking Africa’s potential. The synergy between governments and the private sector, coupled with cross-national cooperation, was identified as a cornerstone for sustainable development. 

Vice Admiral Amoama commended AEF for its visionary approach, recognizing the organization as a key player in shaping Africa’s future. He pledged his support for AEF’s initiatives and encouraged continued dialogue to strengthen ties between Ghana, Nigeria, and other African nations. 

The meeting between AEF and the High Commissioner of Ghana was a testament to the power of collaboration in driving Africa’s transformation. Through initiatives like the proposed African economic city, the Africans for Africa movement, and the Kigali conference, AEF is proving that a united, self-reliant Africa is not just an aspiration—it is an achievable reality. 

As AEF continues to build bridges between sectors and nations, the organization invites all stakeholders to join in this shared journey. Together, Africa can chart a new course, one that is defined by innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to the prosperity of its people. With leaders like Vice Admiral Seth Amoama championing this vision, the future of Africa looks undeniably bright.