United Nations Special Representative Hannah Tetteh has outlined five critical areas for African countries to prioritize. These areas include trade, finance, artificial intelligence (AI), and peace, aiming to strengthen the continent's position in a rapidly changing global order. Her recommendations were made at the 21st Kronti ne Akwamu Public Lecture.
Mrs. Tetteh emphasized that Africa's future influence depends on its ability to implement decisions, build resilience, and address internal weaknesses. She cautioned against broad policy statements without clear implementation mechanisms. The African Union's proposed common foreign policy framework, adopted in February 2026, offers an opportunity for countries to collaborate. This framework was championed by Kenya's President William Ruto and aims for development before the 2027 AU Summit.
This focus on practical implementation aligns with Ghana's broader economic strategy, which seeks to boost intra-African trade and reduce reliance on external aid. The government has consistently advocated for stronger regional integration through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Ghana's economic growth, projected at 2.8% for 2024 by the World Bank, relies heavily on trade and investment. Effective implementation of AfCFTA protocols could significantly enhance this growth.
Mrs. Tetteh's first priority is strengthening the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She stated that while key protocols have been agreed and ratified, countries must now domesticate and implement them. This will allow businesses to fully benefit from continental markets. She explained, "There is a difference between market access and market readiness."
She stressed the need to improve trade infrastructure, customs efficiency, and institutional support for businesses. These improvements are vital for taking advantage of continental markets. Mrs. Tetteh suggested using indicators like the World Bank's Logistics Performance Index to measure progress. This index tracks areas such as trade facilitation and the movement of goods.
Her second priority involves advocating for reform of the global financial system. Simultaneously, she called for strengthening domestic resource mobilization. Mrs. Tetteh argued that Africa cannot continue relying heavily on foreign aid and external financing. This is especially true as official development assistance continues to decline globally.
Mrs. Tetteh also identified climate advocacy linked with economic development as another crucial priority. She argued that Africa's climate transition must consider the continent's need for energy access and industrial growth. This approach ensures that climate action supports, rather than hinders, economic progress.
She called for a common African position on artificial intelligence governance. Decisions about technologies shaping humanity's future must include developing countries, she stressed. This ensures that Africa's interests are represented in global AI policy discussions.
The final priority highlighted was achieving peace and security through renewed efforts to silence the guns on the continent. Mrs. Tetteh stated that Africa must accelerate diplomatic and mediation efforts. This is crucial as conflicts continue to increase despite earlier commitments to end armed conflicts.
Mrs. Tetteh concluded that these priorities require stronger political commitment. There must be a shift from merely announcing policies to ensuring their effective implementation. This shift is essential for Africa to achieve its development goals and secure its future.