By Ansah David

Copyright ahotoronline

President John Dramani Mahama has called on African nations to prioritize strategic investments in infrastructure, particularly transport networks, as a means to accelerate intra-continental trade and strengthen regional integration.
Speaking at a meeting with newly accredited High Commissioners and Ambassadors at the Jubilee House in Accra, Mahama stressed that improving transportation infrastructure within Africa would reduce the continent’s dependence on external shipping routes, which are often longer and more expensive.
He pointed out that, in some instances, goods intended for African markets are first routed through European ports before being shipped back to Africa. This inefficient process, Mahama noted, undermines the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and hampers efforts to integrate African economies.
“Investing in transportation infrastructure within the continent is not just about improving trade flows,” Mahama said. “It is about empowering African nations to take full control of their economic destiny and reduce the dependency on external shipping lanes that often delay delivery times and increase costs.”
The President’s remarks came after receiving credentials from the newly accredited High Commissioners and Ambassadors, during a ceremony held at the Jubilee House in Accra.
In a separate conversation with the Kenyan High Commissioner to Ghana, Mahama emphasized the importance of implementing deliberate, targeted strategies to not only promote trade but also to bolster regional security. He noted that a secure and interconnected Africa would be far better positioned to overcome the economic challenges it faces.
“Security and trade go hand in hand,” Mahama explained. “By creating an environment of stability and strong infrastructure, we can lay the foundation for a more resilient and prosperous African economy.”
The former president also highlighted Ghana’s plans to strengthen its bilateral relations with Kenya, particularly in the area of tourism development. Drawing from Kenya’s expertise, Mahama expressed hope that this partnership would open up new opportunities for growth, especially in people-to-people exchanges and tourism-related investments.
“We look forward to building a robust partnership with Kenya that can serve as a model for other African nations,” Mahama concluded. “By sharing knowledge and resources, we can unlock new opportunities and create lasting impact across the continent.”
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku