The economic partnership between Ghana and Algeria continues to thrive with trade volume reaching a notable $44 million in 2023.
This stride, highlighted at the 70th anniversary of the Glorious Algerian Revolution held at the Algerian Ambassador’s residence in Accra, signifies the ongoing collaboration between the two nations across multiple sectors with significant future economic prospects.
The anniversary celebration, hosted by Algerian Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Mourad Louhaidia, brought together government officials, diplomats, and representatives from both countries to reflect on Algeria’s journey to independence and its subsequent development.
The event highlighted the depth of the Ghana-Algeria relationship, which has evolved from shared struggles for independence to becoming a robust economic and diplomatic alliance.
Ambassador Louhaidia stressed Algeria’s economic transition, noting its transformation from a primarily oil-dependent economy to one increasingly focused on sectors such as agriculture, industry, and technology.
“Our shift aims to create a resilient, diversified economy,” he said, inviting Ghana and other African nations to explore the new investment opportunities arising from this economic transition.
He emphasized Algeria’s vision to foster African partnerships that go beyond trade, building networks that advance sustainable development.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), headquartered in Accra, the Ambassador hoped would unlock even greater economic potential between Algeria and Ghana, creating pathways for both countries to diversify their trade portfolios and deepen their economic ties.
“AfCFTA presents a monumental opportunity to propel Africa’s economic growth by uniting our resources and markets,” he noted, urging businesses in Ghana and Algeria to seize this unique opportunity.
Ambassador Mourad Louhaidia expressed his appreciation for the flourishing relationship, noting that the economic and trade partnerships between the two countries were a testament to the progress both countries have achieved.
Relations between Algeria and Ghana, he emphasised, was steeped in history, shaped by a shared vision and a pan-Africanist aspiration for peace, unity, and progress.
Reflecting on the deep historical bond between the two nations, he paid tribute to Ghana’s support during Algeria’s struggle for independence in the 1950s, recalling the efforts of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President and a pan-African icon, who strongly advocated for Algeria’s liberation.
The Ambassador said these shared experiences of struggle and resilience had laid a strong foundation for the friendship that continued today, and that Algeria was committed to fortifying its relationship with Ghana in a manner that reflected the historical friendship and solidarity uniting their peoples.
Ambassador Louhaidia praised the increased scholarships offered by Algeria to Ghanaian students, which now encompasses various fields like medicine, engineering, and Islamic studies, and that those scholarships reflected Algeria’s broader mission of investing in African talent, fostering a skilled workforce that could further support the continent’s economic growth and integration.
Ambassador Louhaidia said Ghana-Algeria cooperation in advancing peace and security in Africa was significant, adding that Algeria, a member of the United Nations Security Council, had made substantial contributions to stabilizing the Sahel region and supporting African-led solutions to conflicts.
According to the Ambassador, Algeria’s $1 billion pledge through the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development reflected its commitment to peace, security, and the sustainable development of the African continent.
Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Ghana’s Minister of Education, acknowledged the historical ties between the two countries and said the growth in bilateral trade and the impact of Algeria’s support for Ghanaian students and professionals in areas like security and education, had contributed to human resource development in Ghana.
“The $44 million trade between our two nations is a testament to the strength and potential of our partnership. Our relationship is one built on shared history, mutual respect, and a vision for a united and prosperous Africa,” Dr. Adutwum remarked.
Dr. Adutwum noted that AfCFTA’s potential lay in its ability to foster economic diversification and create sustainable growth avenues.
“As we pursue our economic agendas, it is crucial that we harness the trade possibilities within AfCFTA. Ghana and Algeria, with their regional influence and resources, are well-positioned to be key players in this transformative initiative,” he said.
In education, Dr. Adutwum commended Algeria for its contributions to the sector, stating, “The scholarships granted to Ghanaian students each year are instrumental in building a highly educated and capable society that will serve as the backbone of our economic aspirations.”
