Ghana’s Ministry of Trade, specifically the Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, has called for a major economic and spiritual transformation across Africa. This appeal came during his address at the 2026 Let Africa Go Conference on May 14.
Mr. Ahi, speaking on behalf of Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, urged renewed commitment to economic transformation through trade, industrialisation, agribusiness, and innovation. He also underlined the critical role of faith and values in achieving sustainable development. A youthful population, abundant natural resources, strong entrepreneurial spirit, and rich spiritual heritage position Africa for this new era.
This initiative aligns with Ghana’s broader economic strategy which seeks to leverage continental trade opportunities and local innovation for growth. Ghana has been a strong proponent of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), viewing it as a pivotal instrument for regional economic integration. The nation consistently advocates for policies that enhance intra-African trade and industrial capacity.
Mr. Ahi described the "Let Africa Go" movement as having both spiritual and profound economic aspects. He stated that Africans are taking ownership of their development agenda with solutions tailored to the continent's realities. This perspective is crucial for fostering self-reliance and reducing dependency on external aid, a long-standing goal for many African economies.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a transformative opportunity for a unified African market. AfCFTA, headquartered in Accra, Ghana, aims to create a single market for goods and services across 54 African countries. This market could unlock significant economic growth, create millions of jobs, and foster shared prosperity across the continent.
For Ghana, the success of AfCFTA means expanded export markets for its agricultural products and manufactured goods. It also encourages local industries to become more competitive and innovative. The Ministry’s focus on ethical values and the role of faith-based organizations underscores the belief that sustainable development requires more than just economic metrics. It needs a strong moral foundation.
Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, also praised the contributions of churches to Ghana’s education and healthcare sectors. He called on faith-based organisations throughout Africa to support holistic development initiatives. This reinforces the government’s view that non-state actors play a vital role in national development. Investing in human resources and digital technology is thus seen as essential for future progress.
The push for integrating spiritual and ethical considerations into economic development will likely shape future policy discussions. Policymakers and market participants will watch for concrete strategies arising from this emphasis. These strategies could include new partnerships between government, businesses, and religious institutions. This holistic approach aims to ensure that economic growth benefits all segments of society equitably.