Ghana has hosted a high-level meeting aimed at advancing preparations for the upcoming Africa Economic Forum, bringing together key government officials, policymakers, and representatives from regional and international institutions to align priorities for economic transformation across the continent.
The meeting, held in Accra, focused on strengthening collaboration among African states to accelerate trade integration, industrial development, and investment mobilisation under the broader African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. Discussions also centred on how the Africa Economic Forum can serve as a platform to address persistent structural challenges such as limited intra-African trade, infrastructure deficits, and youth unemployment.
Senior officials at the meeting emphasised Ghana’s strategic role as a host and facilitator of continental economic dialogue, noting that the country continues to position itself as a hub for African diplomacy and economic cooperation. They stressed that the forum would provide an opportunity for African leaders and private sector actors to design practical solutions that promote inclusive growth and resilience amid global economic uncertainty.
Participants also explored financing mechanisms for African development, with particular attention to expanding public-private partnerships, improving access to capital for small and medium-sized enterprises, and leveraging digital innovation to boost productivity across key sectors.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that outcomes from the Africa Economic Forum would help translate policy commitments into actionable projects that can drive long-term economic transformation across Africa.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to deepen coordination among participating countries ahead of the main forum, with Ghana pledging continued support to ensure its successful organisation and impact.
