The Africa Business Council (AfBC) has appointed Dr. Akwasi Opong-Fosu, one of Ghana’s most seasoned public administrators and political leaders, to its Strategic Advisory Board for the 2025–2027 term. His inclusion signals the Council’s intent to bring deep governance experience and international influence to its mission of promoting African businesses and advancing intra-African trade.
Currently serving as Board Chairman of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Dr. Opong-Fosu brings more than four decades of leadership in public service, politics, and international diplomacy. Over the years, he has held positions as Mayor, Member of Parliament, and Minister, overseeing critical portfolios such as Local Government, Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and also serving as Minister of State at the Presidency responsible for Development Authorities. His leadership of Ghana’s Local Government Service is remembered for far-reaching reforms that strengthened governance systems nationwide.
On the continental and global stage, Dr. Opong-Fosu has been equally influential. He is a past President of the African Union of Local Authorities and has represented Africa in global sustainability and governance bodies including ICLEI and the UN Advisory Committee of Local Authorities. His work uniting Anglophone and Francophone African local governments into a single continental platform earned him recognition from the United Cities and Local Governments.
Beyond governance, he has become a consistent voice in international dialogue, addressing platforms such as the United Nations, Crans Montana Forum, Wall Street Economic Summit, and the Marrakesh Security Forum. His thought leadership covers governance, peace and security, trade and investment, and sustainable development — themes central to Africa’s growth ambitions.
AfBC believes Dr. Opong-Fosu’s wealth of expertise will sharpen its strategic direction at a time when Africa is seeking stronger representation in global trade and economic governance. “We are honoured to welcome Dr. Akwasi Opong-Fosu, whose vast experience in governance, investment promotion, and international leadership will help strengthen Africa’s voice on the global stage,” the Council said in a statement.
The appointment is expected to bolster AfBC’s agenda of empowering African enterprises, expanding intra-African trade under the AfCFTA framework, and positioning the continent as a competitive player in the global economy. With his blend of local, continental, and global leadership, Dr. Opong-Fosu is seen as uniquely placed to help bridge Africa’s business ambitions with international opportunities.
For Africa’s private sector and policymakers, his presence on the Advisory Board represents not just another appointment, but a chance to inject proven governance experience into efforts to build a more inclusive and sustainable economic future.
