The Africa Economic Forum (AEF) has announced the appointment of two of Ghana’s most distinguished political figures—former President John Agyekum Kufuor and former Minister of State Akwasi Opong-Fosu, Ph.D.—to its Strategic Advisory Board.
The announcement, made on Friday, February 13, 2026, from the Forum’s headquarters in Kinshasa, signals a strategic push to blend veteran statesmanship with technical governance expertise as Africa positions itself within a rapidly evolving global economic order.
A Legacy of Statesmanship
President Kufuor, who led Ghana from 2001 to 2009, brings decades of institutional leadership to the AEF. Internationally respected for his calm, consensus-driven approach to governance, his presidency oversaw major economic reforms, including Ghana’s participation in the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative, which reshaped the country’s fiscal outlook.
His inclusion is expected to strengthen the Forum’s engagement with global heads of state, multilateral institutions, and long-term investors seeking stable and reform-oriented African markets.
Driving Institutional Reform
Joining him on the board is Dr. Akwasi Opong-Fosu, a seasoned public sector reform specialist and former Minister of State. Known for his work on institutional efficiency and governance systems, Dr. Opong-Fosu is expected to provide strategic guidance on modernising public administration and aligning policy reforms with investor expectations.
“President Kufuor and Hon. Opong-Fosu embody Africa’s transformative leadership,” said Billy Issa, Founder and Chairman of the AEF. “Their combined experience in diplomacy, governance, and institutional reform will be critical as we mobilise investment and elevate Africa’s voice globally.”
Redefining Africa’s Investment Narrative
The Africa Economic Forum has emerged as a leading platform for high-level policy dialogue and investment facilitation on the continent. Through appointments of this calibre, the Forum aims to narrow the perception gap that continues to limit capital flows into African economies.
The AEF’s strategy is anchored on four core pillars:
- Connecting Reform with Capital: Translating policy improvements into investor confidence.
- Sustainable Economic Growth: Promoting diversification beyond commodity dependence.
- Global Strategic Partnerships: Deepening ties between African institutions and international business leaders.
- Thought Leadership: Shaping global discourse on innovation and responsible leadership.
A Strategic Moment for 2026
The appointments come as Africa advances key integration initiatives, including the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). With cross-border trade frameworks expanding, the demand for experienced negotiators and governance reformers is intensifying.
For the AEF, the move represents more than a board expansion—it is a clear statement of intent. By combining diplomatic influence with technical expertise, the Forum is positioning itself to transition from dialogue to tangible, large-scale economic outcomes.
As the global economy recalibrates in 2026, the AEF’s leadership bet underscores a broader ambition: to place Africa not just at the table, but at the forefront of shaping the global economic agenda.
