Africa-US economic partnerships must focus on strategy, equity, and co-creation 

Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, spoke about Africa and the US. He highlighted their potential for strong economic partnerships.

He noted that global alliances are changing. Economic nationalism is rising too. This makes it essential for Africa-US relations to evolve. They should focus on strategy, equity, and co-creation instead of just aid.

At the African Leaders and Partners Forum in Washington, DC, Dr. Asiama shared his vision. He wants to turn isolated transactions into long-term frameworks. He also aims to shift extractive exports toward value-added integration.

He said, “Let us shape a future where Africa and the US are not just trading partners.” He envisions a partnership where American innovation meets African ingenuity. The goal is transformational collaboration rather than extractive relationships.

Dr. Asiama cited examples like Kosmos and Niche Cocoa to illustrate potential growth. He asked what US-Africa trade could achieve with the right policies.

He recommended four priorities for this relationship:
1. Pursuing macroeconomic credibility.
2. Fostering financial system resilience.
3. Strengthening trade integration.
4. Driving inclusive digital transformation.

He stressed that financing is crucial for scaling these initiatives. Dr. Asiama called for establishing US-Africa Trade Finance Hubs with institutions like EXIM Bank and Afreximbank.

He urged actions to reduce risks for SMEs and new exporters. Offering blended capital instruments can attract investment in high-potential areas.

“Africa is not short on opportunity,” he stated. He encouraged African governments to align ambition with mechanisms that unlock opportunities with the US.