AfCFTA prepares Ghanaian representatives for Biashara Afrika 2024 in Kigali

The National AfCFTA Coordination Office has conducted a pre-exhibition orientation session for selected Ghanaian companies ahead of the Biashara Afrika 2024 Forum, scheduled to take place from October 9th to 11th in Kigali, Rwanda.

The orientation, held in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), GIZ, and MasterCard on September 27, 2024, aimed to equip participants with practical tools to maximize their presence at the international forum and exhibition.

The Biashara Afrika 2024 Forum will bring together African businesses from 35 countries, as well as global enterprises, to discuss business development and market opportunities across the continent.

For Ghanaian representatives, the forum offers an opportunity to gain exposure, network, and explore new business partnerships in the African marketplace.

Dr. Fareed Kwesi Arthur, National AfCFTA Coordinator, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "This is the second time the AfCFTA Secretariat is hosting the African business forum. The first was in South Africa, and this year, it will be held in Rwanda.

“We have selected companies, primarily from the small and medium enterprise sector, to participate. The goal is to build their capacity, enabling them to negotiate effectively, network, and promote Ghana on the African stage."

According to Divine Kutortse, Programme Officer at the NCO, “The businesses selected were largely women and youth-owned," Kutortse explained.

"This is a deliberate effort by the NCO to ensure that these groups are not left behind in the AfCFTA framework. We want to provide them with the tools and opportunities to thrive in this new trade environment." this initiative underscores Ghana’s commitment to promoting inclusive trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

In the months leading up to this mission, the entrepreneurs underwent rigorous training on how to navigate the intricacies of trading under the AfCFTA. The Rwanda expedition will now serve as a litmus test for the skills they've acquired, offering real-world opportunities to engage in cross-border trade within the continent’s new economic landscape.

"The African Business Forum (Biashara Afrika 2024) is their chance to put into practice everything they've learned," Kutortse added. "It's not just about theoretical knowledge anymore, it’s time to test actual trade under AfCFTA in reality"

The Ghanaian delegation consists of 12 businesses, all of which are eager to explore new market opportunities at the forum.

Among the participants is Victor Gollop, a representative from the construction materials sector. Gollop’s company manufactures GFRP rebar, an innovative alternative to traditional iron rods. Speaking about his expectations, he said, "We expect to boost our growth, find reliable business partners, and open new markets in Rwanda."

Another participant, Araba, who serves as the Strategic Alliance and Partnership Manager for World Shoe Limited, echoed similar optimism. Her company specializes in manufacturing eco-friendly and biodegradable footwear aimed at promoting health.

“We are looking to network with the right stakeholders, sell our product, and change the narrative that nothing good comes from Africa. We are presenting Africa to the world in a completely different light,” she remarked.



AM/MA

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