K.T. Hammond Urges U.S. Business Leaders to Forge Partnerships with Ghanaian Businesses for Mutual Gain

The Minister actively engaged with Members of the House Ways and Means Committee, the trade committee at the U.S. House of Representatives, advocating for the extension of a crucial initiative. She emphasized the significant role played by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in Ghana’s economic development, highlighting the doubling of apparel exports three years ago following the establishment of the Tema textiles enclave. This success underscored the importance of AGOA for Ghana’s continued growth and prosperity.In discussions with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Rick Wade, Senior Vice President of Strategic Alliances and Outreach, provided insights into the Chamber’s “Advance with Africa” initiative. This initiative aims to promote investment in Africa, particularly in Ghana, by reaching out to the 2.6 million black-owned businesses in the U.S. Mr. Wade expressed the Chamber’s commitment to collaborating with the Minister to strengthen business ties between the United States and Ghana, fostering mutual economic benefits for both nations.Dr. Guevera Yao, Vice President of the U.S.-Africa Business Center at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the Biden administration’s dedication to engaging the diaspora as a catalyst for transforming Africa. He highlighted the establishment of the President’s Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PAC-ADE) tasked with advising the President on how to leverage the diaspora’s expertise and resources to further development efforts across the continent. This recognition of the diaspora’s potential underscores the administration’s commitment to fostering partnerships that drive positive change in Africa.The Corporate Council on Africa (CCA), a 30-year-old Business Association representing both U.S. and African companies, including SMEs and multinationals, actively advocates for increased U.S. trade, investments, and business engagement with Africa, including Ghana. Through its advocacy efforts, the CCA plays a crucial role in promoting economic cooperation and facilitating business opportunities that contribute to sustainable development and prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.