Vanuatu Trade Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Amb.Prof. Hugh Keku Aryee, delivered a stirring keynote address at the 2025 GNAPS Conference, making a resonant case for Africa’s digital transformation through education, finance, and partnership.
Trade Commissioner Aryee, speaking on behalf of the Vanuatu Trade Commission Ghana, in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Economic Community of the 6th Region of Africa (ECO-6) and the African Diaspora Central Bank (ADCB), explored the transformative potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, particularly through Artificial Intelligence.
He introduced the concept of the “Meta Generation,” a cohort poised to define the future of learning, technology, and innovation across the continent.
Reflecting on historical ties, Trade Commissioner Aryee highlighted the Economic Community of the 6th Region of Africa (ECO-6)—formally recognized by the African Union as the global representative of the African diaspora.
He praised the diaspora’s enduring contributions to Africa’s growth and emphasized the importance of maintaining and cultivating networks—reminding attendees that “your network is your net worth" and urged participants to leverage on networking opportunities for future benefit.
Turning to Vanuatu’s identity and engagement beyond the Pacific, he described the nation’s role as a partner to Africa, built on cultural richness, resilience, and innovation. Vanuatu which was voted as the happiest place on earth—offers more than just charm; it brings viable avenues for cooperations such as Kava Exports. This traditional root is a crucial export commodity for Vanuatu.
Accounting for nearly half of the nation’s merchandise exports, kava supports about 42% of households and has seen export values soar—an economic linchpin for rural farmers and exporters alike .
Tourism & Cultural Heritage: Vanuatu’s tourism sector has proven remarkably resilient. Its natural beauty—from pristine beaches and coral reefs to iconic experiences like land diving on Pentecost Island—continues to attract high-value travelers. Recent data shows strong visitor satisfaction, with over 91% likely to recommend Vanuatu as a destination .
Ghanaian Business Expansion: Reflecting growing economic ties, Ghanaian entrepreneurs are increasingly setting up shop in Vanuatu with 7 businesses so far incoporated by the Vanuatu Trade Commission, highlighting the nation’s friendly business environment across industries like tourism, agriculture, ICT, and trade .
The Trade Commissioner Aryee also acknowledged the pivotal role of the African Diaspora, whose investments and expertise continue to enrich the continent’s development.
His address culminated in a powerful, standing ovation from attendees—an emphatic affirmation of his message and leadership.
In closing, the Trade Commissioner announced that the Vanuatu Trade Commission, in partnership with ECO-6 and ADCB, has committed USD 200 million in AKL Lumi digital currency to GNAPS and its members, a landmark investment aimed at expanding access to innovative education and financial inclusion throughout Ghana.
