Eight U.S. companies visited Ghana from September 13 to 14 to explore potential business partnerships. This visit was part of the largest-ever trade mission to Africa led by the U.S. government, under the Trade Winds-Africa initiative organized by the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The mission included over 100 companies from 25 states across various industries, aiming to connect with opportunities in several African countries such as Ghana, Angola, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania.
This effort is a component of the Doing Business in Africa campaign initiated during President Obama's administration. The campaign involves significant financial commitments towards development in Sub-Saharan Africa and has facilitated numerous business deals between the U.S. and African nations.
Marcus Jadotte, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Analysis stated: “Africa is on the forefront of an economic emergence that will shape the world’s business environment for years to come.” He emphasized that both the United States and its business community view Africa as a crucial partner.
Sub-Saharan Africa's rapid economic growth presents attractive prospects for foreign investment. It boasts six of the world's ten fastest-growing economies. For American businesses specifically, these markets offer not only revenue potential but also opportunities to make impactful contributions.
Paul Taylor, U.S. Senior Commercial Officer based at the U.S. Embassy in Accra noted: “American companies are innovative and produce quality goods and services, but what really separates most of them is a desire to make an impact.” He highlighted that U.S. firms often contribute trained workforces and enhanced infrastructure alongside their commercial ventures.
Taylor further added: “The U.S. commitment to corporate social responsibility is difficult to match in global business.”
Among those visiting were Amalie Oil, Ardry Trading, The Von Corporation, RadioShack, Graphic Products, ITSI Biosciences, Black & Veatch and Black Opal. They engaged with 68 Ghanaian businesses during their stay on Monday while receiving market-specific guidance from commercial diplomats at the U.S. Embassy in Ghana.
Following their activities in Ghana earlier this week, delegates will proceed to South Africa where they will participate in additional meetings and attend a business forum featuring speakers from both American and African enterprises including McKinsey & Company Inc., Sasol Ltd., and Ford Motor Company later this week.