Emmanuel Amoah-Darkwah urges Ghana to prioritize value addition in trade deals

Economist Emmanuel Amoah-Darkwah has urged the Ghanaian government and relevant authorities to prioritize value addition and sustainable job creation within the country's investment and trade agreements. Speaking on the strategic direction of the national economy, Amoah-Darkwah argued that the path to lasting prosperity requires a departure from the historical reliance on raw material exports. He stressed that future negotiations with international partners must place the processing of natural resources at the heart of the nation’s economic agenda. According to Amoah-Darkwah, the current practice of exporting raw minerals, oil, and gas often leaves Ghana with only a fraction of the potential wealth generated by its natural resources. By integrating value-addition requirements into trade deals, the country can ensure that more of the supply chain remains within its borders. This approach would involve establishing refineries, processing plants, and manufacturing hubs that can transform crude materials into finished or semi-finished goods before they reach the international market. This shift is expected to not only increase export revenues but also catalyze the growth of ancillary industries. The economist further highlighted that focusing on resource processing is a critical component of a broader employment strategy. He noted that while raw material extraction is often capital-intensive but provides limited direct employment, processing and manufacturing are labor-intensive sectors that can provide stable, high-quality jobs for Ghanaians. Amoah-Darkwah pointed out that by fostering local development through these industrial activities, the government can address unemployment challenges and promote technical skill acquisition among the youth, which is essential for a modern economy. Ultimately, Amoah-Darkwah believes that a focus on value addition will provide a more resilient foundation for the Ghanaian economy, shielding it from the fluctuations of global commodity markets. As the country looks to strengthen its position in the global trade arena, he maintains that the priority must remain on maximizing the domestic benefits of every resource extracted. This strategic pivot, he argues, is the only way to ensure that the nation’s natural wealth leads to widespread and inclusive economic growth.