President John Dramani Mahama has encouraged African countries to strategically position themselves to benefit from ongoing changes in global trade and geopolitical landscapes.
Addressing participants at the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum on Friday, April 19, Mr. Mahama highlighted the need for a continental shift from a trade-dependent mindset to one rooted in industrialisation and entrepreneurship.
He observed that Africa has historically missed out on the economic rewards of major global transitions—from the Cold War era to the rise of globalisation. However, he believes current developments, such as increasing trade disputes among global superpowers, present a renewed opportunity for the continent.
“The world is evolving, and with it come new windows of opportunity,” he said. “We must be proactive and position ourselves to take advantage of these changes.”
Mr. Mahama stressed that Africa must move beyond its traditional role as a consumer and supplier of raw materials and embrace manufacturing, digital innovation, and agribusiness as central pillars of economic transformation.
“We are more than just traders. We can produce, innovate, and lead,” he asserted.
He added that the instability in global politics and economics is creating space for emerging regions like Africa to assert greater influence and redefine their place in the global economy.
The Kwahu Business Forum is part of a broader initiative that brings together leaders in policy, business, and investment to explore pathways for economic growth and private sector development in Ghana and across the African continent.
