The Africa Economic Forum (AEF) has appointed the Chairman of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Dr. Akwasi Opong-Fosu, to its Strategic Advisory Board.
In announcing the appointment, the AEF described Dr. Opong-Fosu as a distinguished strategist whose expertise in governance, public finance, and economic policy will be instrumental in advancing the Forum’s continental mandate.
According to the statement, his background provides the AEF with critical insights into how states function and prioritize—knowledge essential to the organization’s mission of harmonizing policies across Africa.
“As a former Government Minister and a Senior Advisor at the Africa Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), Hon. Opong-Fosu operates at the intersection where policy meets practice,” the statement read. “His career demonstrates that economic transformation requires accountability, data-driven strategies, and alignment between government action and industrial growth.”
Private sector orientation
The AEF also highlighted Dr. Opong-Fosu’s private sector orientation, noting that his advisory work is grounded in the practical realities of job creation and industrialization.
“He understands that economic progress happens not in parliamentary chambers, but on factory floors and in trading hubs,” the Forum added.
AfCFTA
With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) entering a critical phase of implementation, the AEF expressed confidence that Dr. Opong-Fosu’s experience in local governance and rural development will help ensure the Forum serves as a catalyst for action, not just a platform for dialogue.
“We are building the engine room of the African economy, and we are delighted that Dr. Opong-Fosu has agreed to roll up his sleeves and help us build,” the statement concluded.
