President John Dramani Mahama has underscored the need for Africa to move beyond merely exporting raw materials and focus on producing finished goods.

According to him, there is a need for value addition before exporting to propel development on the continent.

He noted that this long-standing issue of exporting raw materials has deprived the continent of essential economic benefits and impeded the creation of sustainable jobs and opportunities for African youth.

Delivering a keynote address at the ongoing African Prosperity Dialogues in Accra, President Mahama stressed the importance of enhancing infrastructure across all sectors to stimulate economic growth, taking advantage of the significant opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The President astutely observed that Africa stands at a critical juncture, boasting immense natural wealth, a vibrant and dynamic youthful population, and rapid technological advancements.

However, the continent concurrently grapples with profound economic disparities, infrastructure deficits, and structural barriers that hinder its progress.

Despite these challenges, the President exudes optimism, emphasizing Africa’s imperative to assume control of its destiny.

He envisions the continent leveraging the vast opportunities afforded by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), thereby eliminating artificial barriers that impede collective intra-African trade through decision-making at the highest level of leadership.

By harnessing the potential of the AfCFTA, Africa can foster greater economic integration, promote sustainable development, and ultimately, unlock its full potential.

This sentiment echoes the notion that Africa’s rise is not a new phenomenon, but rather a continuation of its historical trajectory, marked by periods of significant growth and progress.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:



Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel