President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana has emphasized the need for stronger cooperation between Africa and Russia to address infrastructure gaps that limit trade among African countries. He made this call during a meeting with the management of the Russian University of Transport in Russia. The President highlighted the importance of improving transport infrastructure to unlock the full potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
President Mahama noted that poor road networks, inadequate railway connections, and weak port infrastructure continue to hinder the movement of goods across the continent. He observed that despite the AfCFTA establishing a single continental market, the absence of efficient transport networks prevents African countries from fully benefiting from the trade agreement. This has resulted in significant challenges for intra-African trade.
The President described Russia as a longstanding friend of Africa, citing its historical support for the continent's independence struggles, the fight against apartheid, and opposition to colonialism. He believes that Africa and Russia have an opportunity to deepen their longstanding relationship and demonstrate greater solidarity in addressing contemporary development challenges.
President Mahama stressed that addressing Africa's infrastructure challenges would require significant investment in transport infrastructure and stronger partnerships with countries capable of supporting Africa's development ambitions. He emphasized that this cooperation would be crucial in unlocking the full potential of the AfCFTA and promoting economic growth across the continent.
During his engagements in Russia, President Mahama highlighted Ghana's economic performance, stating that foreign investment had increased from $600 million to more than $2.2 billion. He also noted that Ghana's gross domestic product (GDP) had grown from $87 billion to $114 billion following efforts to strengthen the economy. These economic gains underscore the importance of sustained efforts to strengthen the economy and create opportunities for further development.
The President's meeting with the management of the Russian University of Transport formed part of his engagements in Russia, where discussions centered on cooperation and opportunities to address Africa's transport infrastructure and economic development needs. This visit demonstrates Ghana's commitment to fostering partnerships that can support the country's development ambitions.
President Mahama's call for stronger Russia-Africa partnership highlights the need for collaborative efforts to address the continent's development challenges. By working together, Africa and Russia can explore new opportunities for cooperation and promote sustainable economic growth. This partnership can also help to unlock the full potential of the AfCFTA and promote intra-African trade.
Key points
- President Mahama calls for stronger cooperation between Africa and Russia to address infrastructure gaps limiting trade among African countries.
- Africa and Russia have an opportunity to deepen their longstanding relationship and demonstrate greater solidarity in addressing contemporary development challenges.
- Ghana's economic performance has improved, with foreign investment increasing from $600 million to more than $2.2 billion and GDP growing from $87 billion to $114 billion.
