Africans told to promote vigorous intra-African trade

African states have been called upon to be more proactive in the quest for effective intra-African trade. Prof DeValera Botchway, an associate professor of history at the University of Cape Coast made the call when delivering the keynote address at the 3rd National Rastafari Conference in Ghana.

According to Prof Botchway, intra African trade is not new to the continent. He recalled the various trans-African routes from the west coasts of Africa to the Sahel regions of Africa and beyond in addition to the caravan routes that traversed other parts of Africa.

Prof Botchway said political leadership is absolutely essential for effective intra-African trade on the scale required for sustainable development, adding that what is required is pragmatism and futuristic creativity.

The Special Guest of Honour Ras Thau Thau Haramanuba, President of the Rastafari United Front of South Africa called on participants to appreciate Rastafari as a militant revolutionary movement to restore the African dignity.

In his welcome address, the President of the Rastafari Council of Ghana, Ahuma Bosco Ocansey charged members of the Rastafari community to aspire to political office since that is the only way to effect repatriation and all the ideals espoused by Rastafari. He indicated that it would be appropriate that by the next two elections, at least a dozen Rasses should be in Parliament advocating the cause of Rastafari.

The 3rd National Rastafari Conference organized by the Rastafari Council of Ghana was on the theme “Intra African Trade for Sustainable Development.”

In attendance were representatives of various Rastafari organizations such as the Twelve Tribes of Israel, Ghana chapter; Ethiopian World Federation (EWF) and Baafikrom Nyahbingi House from around the country.