Mahama Calls for Public-Private Partnership to Drive African Business Growth
Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has called for a fundamental shift in how African governments approach economic development, emphasizing the crucial role of the private sector. Speaking at the Private-Public Business Dialogue during the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9) in Yokohama, Japan on August 21, 2025, Mahama advocated for a collaborative approach, urging governments to view businesses as partners rather than impediments to progress. This shift in perspective, he argued, is essential for fostering innovation, attracting investment, and driving sustainable national development across the continent.
Fostering an Enabling Environment for Business
Mahama highlighted the need for governments to design policies and regulatory frameworks that actively support and encourage private sector growth. He stated that “The public sector must see the private sector as partners and not an irritant.” His remarks underscored the detrimental impact of excessive regulation and restrictive policies, which in the past have hindered innovation and deterred investment. Drawing upon his experience as a former Minister of Communications, Mahama cited the removal of burdensome licensing requirements for internet cafés in Ghana as a successful example. Such measures, he implied, are key to unlocking the potential of Africa’s burgeoning technology sector and supporting entrepreneurial endeavors. The call reflects a broader movement toward economic strategies that embrace collaboration and aim to create more business-friendly environments, fostering growth across various sectors.
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