Ghana is set to host a landmark event that will shape the future of African industrialization and economic development. The Minister for Trade, Kobina Tahir Hammond, will headline the official launch of the Ambidexterity for Africa (A4A) Policy Framework today, September 10, 2024, at the Labadi Beach Hotel, Accra.
The A4A Policy Framework represents a strategic initiative aimed at equipping African businesses with the tools and capabilities needed to compete on a global scale. Developed after more than a year of in-depth research and consultation, this framework is designed to foster innovation, operational efficiency, and sustainable industrial growth across the continent.
The involvement of Mr Hammond in this launch underscores the critical role of government in driving policies that enhance the industrial capabilities of African nations. His keynote address will focus on the significance of strategic policy frameworks in advancing Ghana’s and Africa’s industrialization agendas, with particular emphasis on how the A4A initiative aligns with broader economic strategies, including those set forth by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
A vision for sustainable growth
The A4A Policy Framework is not only a blueprint for business success but a comprehensive strategy to ensure that Africa takes its rightful place in the global economy. Harmony Attise, Founder and Executive Director of A4A, has highlighted the importance of this initiative in transforming the industrial landscape of Africa.
“Our vision with the A4A Policy Framework is to provide African enterprises with a roadmap that balances innovation and operational excellence. This approach is crucial for fostering sustainable industrialization and ensuring that African businesses are competitive on a global stage,” said Attise.
The framework aims to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that businesses are not only innovative but also capable of scaling operations efficiently. This dual approach of fostering ambidexterity – the ability to explore new opportunities while exploiting existing strengths – is at the core of A4A’s mission.
Strategic collaboration for regional integration
“The collaboration between national governments and regional bodies is essential for creating an integrated African market,” noted Attise. “The A4A framework is designed to complement these efforts, particularly in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, which are key drivers of industrial growth.”
The launch will feature addresses from distinguished leaders within Ghana, with the keynote address delivered by the Minister for Trade. His speech is expected to underscore the critical role of strategic policies in advancing Ghana’s industrialization and enhancing its global competitiveness.
The event will also feature contributions from other key figures, including Franklin Cudjoe, a respected policy expert who will share his insights on governance and economic reform; Seth Twum Akwaboah, CEO of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), who will discuss the practical implications of the A4A framework for local businesses; and Prof. Enoch Opoku-Antwi, Dean, Faculty of Business Administration and Communication Arts, Academic City University.
Launching the framework and white paper
A key highlight of the event will be the dual launch of the A4A Policy Framework and the White Paper titled “Doing Business in Ghana: A Comprehensive Overview of Key Economic Sectors and Investment Opportunities.” The White Paper provides an in-depth analysis of the Ghanaian business environment, offering recommendations to enhance competitiveness and attract investment.
Attise expressed optimism about the impact of these initiatives, stating, “This dual launch is a significant milestone for A4A. It marks the beginning of a new chapter for African businesses, one where they are equipped with the strategies needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global market.”
A call to action
As the launch date is today, September 10, 2024, the A4A team is rallying support from stakeholders across the continent. The event is expected to draw policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and entrepreneurs, all of whom share a commitment to advancing Africa’s economic development.
Attise emphasized the importance of collective action in realizing the goals of the A4A framework. “We are at a critical juncture in Africa’s industrial development. The A4A Policy Framework is not just a document or tool for businesses but a catalyst for broader economic transformation. I encourage all stakeholders to engage with this initiative and contribute to shaping the future of Africa’s economy competitively.”
The launch of the A4A Policy Framework is poised to be a defining moment in the pursuit of sustainable growth and global competitiveness for African businesses.
