During the Presidential Encounter on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), Alan Kyerematen, the Flag-bearer for the Movement for Change, discussed his pivotal contributions to Ghana’s trade and commerce sector.
As the Chief Architect and lead negotiator of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Kyerematen expressed pride in his role, calling it a “major development.” He said, “I literally designed and led the execution of the African Continental Free Trade Area. This is a major achievement.”
Kyerematen’s extensive experience in trade and commerce includes serving as the Minister for Trade under President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration. He also played a key role in securing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) headquarters in Ghana.
To support domestic trade, Kyerematen proposed the establishment of a traders’ bank that would offer affordable credit to business owners, particularly women. “One of my first commitments will be to establish a traders’ bank to provide affordable credit for everyone engaged in commerce,” he explained.
Kyerematen also outlined plans to modernize market infrastructure, integrating amenities like kindergartens, clinics, and modern transport terminals.
He emphasized the urgent need to improve market conditions, noting, “When you visit the markets, the conditions are often unbearable—especially for women. Whether it’s rain or intense heat, it’s tough.”
Highlighting the importance of export trade, Kyerematen stressed that boosting exports is essential for stabilizing Ghana’s local currency. “The key to stabilizing our currency is to export more,” he said. His goal is to increase export revenue to $30 billion by 2030, a significant rise from the current $2-4 billion.
