Stakeholders in the trade and industry sector of the Volta Region are eager to seize the numerous opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). However, they are urging the government to address challenges that could hinder progress in the sector, potentially affecting the effective implementation of the African intra-trade initiative. These appeals were made during the Volta Regional AfCFTA Conference held in Ho.
The AfCFTA aims to create a borderless market across 55 countries in Africa, with the goal of promoting intra-trade and fostering economic growth on the continent. In order to ensure active participation, the national AfCFTA coordination office has been conducting sensitization programs for industry players across the country.
During the Volta Regional conference, Dr. Fareed Kwesi Arthur, the National Coordinator of AfCFTA, emphasized the potential for the initiative to transform the fortunes of the country if fully embraced. He highlighted the region’s strategic position and abundant resources, urging stakeholders to harness these assets to realize significant benefits.
While participants praised the initiative, they raised concerns about challenges such as poor road networks that could impede the effective implementation of AfCFTA. Dela Gadzabku, the Volta and Eastern Regional Chair of the Association of Ghana Industries, highlighted transportation deficiencies, particularly the state of the Eastern Corridor Road and Ho-Denu stretches.
Gadzabku also pointed out the lack of infrastructure and machinery for value addition to raw materials in the region. He emphasized the need to optimize the region’s airport and called for improvements in railway connectivity. Despite acknowledging that the railway may take some time to materialize, he underscored the advantages the region holds.
The Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, revealed that the region is positioning itself to reap the benefits of industrialization. As part of this effort, the region engaged with the AfCFTA coordination office for this year’s Volta Trade and Investment Fair. Plans are underway to upgrade major road networks, including portions of the Eastern Corridor Road, Ho-Denu Road, and roads in the Adaklu District. Budgeting and proposals for the asphaltic surfacing of the Ho-Denu Road have been submitted for approval from the Ministry of Roads.
The 5th regional AfCFTA conference successfully brought together players in small and medium-scale industries. Participants received lectures on the African intra-trade initiative, its framework and action plan, and the vast opportunities for Ghanaian producers to export their products.
