Senyo Hosi, Founder and Executive Chairman of Kleeve and Tove Ltd, has called for closer cooperation between capable governments and competitive businesses to drive Africa’s economic transformation. He stated that African countries need clear rules, investment in public goods, and an environment where businesses can create value and jobs.
Mr. Hosi made these remarks at the Students & Young Professionals Africa Liberty Academy (SYPALA) 2026. The event took place at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), organized by IMANI Africa. He spoke on the topic, “Beyond Politics: How Business and Public Policy Can Drive Africa’s Transformation.”
This call comes as Ghana and other African nations grapple with economic challenges and the need for sustained growth. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects Ghana's real GDP growth at 2.8% for 2024, highlighting the urgency of structural reforms. Mr. Hosi's emphasis on policy predictability aligns with investor concerns about regulatory stability in emerging markets.
“Africa absolutely needs capable states and competitive markets working together,” Mr. Hosi stated. He added, “Government setting clear rules and investing in public goods. Business creating value when jobs and citizens holding both are comfortable.” This statement underscores the symbiotic relationship required for economic progress.
Mr. Hosi identified five key drivers for African countries to achieve sustainable economic growth. Policy certainty and the rule of law are the first major drivers of development. He argued that investors commit resources more readily when institutions are reliable and contracts are enforced.
“Capital is patient where rules are credible,” he explained. “Entrepreneurs invest where contracts are enforced. Property is protected and regulations do not change overnight.” This highlights the importance of a stable legal and regulatory framework for attracting long-term investment. African countries must strengthen institutions to reduce excessive discretion and increase public confidence.
Productive infrastructure is another critical requirement for economic competitiveness. Mr. Hosi listed roads, ports, railways, electricity, broadband, water systems, and logistics as essential platforms. He warned that high energy costs and poor infrastructure make businesses uncompetitive. For example, paying higher electricity rates due to reckless Independent Power Producer (IPP) contracts harms local production.
The African Development Bank assesses that closing Africa’s infrastructure gap could increase GDP growth by an estimated two percentage points annually. Mr. Hosi stressed that infrastructure planning must focus on productivity, jobs, value chains, and markets, not just physical assets. Poor transport systems also lead to unproductive travel time and increased fuel costs, reducing overall economic efficiency.
The third driver is human capital for a changing economy. Africa’s young population can become a major economic advantage. However, this requires equipping young people with skills, values, and opportunities. “Africa’s youth advantage becomes a demographic dividend only when we match these gifts with skills, health, discipline, ethics, and opportunity,” Mr. Hosi said.
He placed strong emphasis on ethics, noting that weak ethical standards challenge businesses and public institutions. Mr. Hosi acknowledged that older generations also bear responsibility for the example they set. He cited an experience in Canada where trust and personal responsibility reduced business operating costs, contrasting it with challenges faced in Africa.
Mr. Hosi’s recommendations suggest that Ghana and other African nations must prioritize institutional reforms and strategic investments. Policy makers will need to focus on creating a predictable business environment. This includes strengthening legal frameworks and investing in critical infrastructure projects. The private sector will also play a crucial role in driving innovation and job creation. Future economic stability and growth depend on these concerted efforts.