Ghana offers free visa to Africans: Processes underway – President Akufo-Addo

In a historic move, Ghana has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to make the country accessible to all Africans without the need for a visa. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo announced the commencement of this process during the second edition of the African Prosperity Dialogues at the Peduase Presidential Lodge. The visionary decision aims to facilitate seamless movement of goods, services, and people across the continent, fostering economic prosperity in alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Visa-Free Entry for Africans

President Akufo-Addo expressed the Ghanaian government’s commitment to implementing a visa-free entry policy for all Africans before the end of the year. This move is seen as a crucial step towards realizing the goals of AfCFTA, encouraging economic integration through the free movement of people and goods.

A Platform for Dialogue

The African Prosperity Dialogues, organized by the African Prosperity Network (APN) in collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat, provided a unique platform for representatives of heads of state, policymakers, and leaders of business and industry to engage in high-level public-private matchmaking. This dialogue is instrumental in mobilizing Africa’s private sector to actively contribute to and benefit from the opportunities presented by AfCFTA.

Africa’s Economic Potential

President Akufo-Addo emphasized Africa’s vast economic potential, highlighting its abundant natural resources, including gas, sunlight, and 65% of arable land capable of feeding nine billion people by 2050. He underscored the continent’s youthful population as a valuable asset, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility to transform these prospects into productivity for the benefit of the people.

Key Priorities

Efficient transport and logistics infrastructure were identified as key priorities by President Akufo-Addo. He called for streamlined processes, the adoption of digital technology, and sustainable agricultural practices. The President stressed the importance of investing in innovation and technology, particularly in agribusiness and industry, to boost production and ensure resilience in the face of global challenges and climate change.

Call to Action

President Akufo-Addo urged African leaders and business figures to translate previous commitments into tangible actions that deepen the resolve to achieve the goals of AfCFTA. He emphasized the necessity of collaboration between the public and private sectors, working together to create a united and prosperous Africa.

Financial Initiatives and Collaborations

The AfCFTA Secretariat’s Secretary-General, Wamkele Mene, highlighted the success of AfCFTA since its establishment in Accra. He announced the development of the AfCFTA tariff book, providing certainty to economic operators regarding tariffs on exported products. Additionally, Mr. Kwamina Duker, CEO of Development Bank Ghana (DBG), shared that the DBG had directed over GH¢1 billion into the private sector, creating jobs and fostering sustainable growth.

Conclusion

Ghana’s bold decision to offer visa-free entry to all Africans represents a significant step towards a united and economically integrated Africa. The African Prosperity Dialogues serve as a crucial platform for fostering collaboration, dialogue, and actionable plans to realize the transformative potential of AfCFTA. As Ghana leads the way, the continent stands on the brink of a new era of economic prosperity and unity.

Source : Graphic Online

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