By: Gloria Anderson
The Vanuatu Trade Commission Ghana has thrown its weight behind Africa’s digital future, spotlighting Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a catalyst for educational and economic transformation.
Delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) Conference, H.E. Amb. Prof. Hugh Keku Aryee, Trade Commissioner of Vanuatu to Ghana, called for a bold embrace of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to drive Africa’s growth in education, finance, and innovation.
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), Prof. Aryee introduced the idea of the “Meta Generation” a new wave of young Africans poised to redefine learning and technology across the continent.
He underscored the crucial role of the African diaspora in shaping Africa’s progress, describing ECO-6 as the African Union–recognized representative of the diaspora. “Your network is your net worth,” he told participants, urging them to maximize partnerships for sustainable development.
Prof. Aryee also drew attention to Vanuatu’s global identity and its growing economic links with Africa. Highlighting the Pacific nation’s resilience, culture, and innovation, he showcased kava exports a traditional root crop that constitutes nearly half of Vanuatu’s merchandise exports and sustains 42% of rural households as an example of mutually beneficial trade opportunities.
On tourism, he noted Vanuatu’s reputation as one of the “happiest places on earth,” renowned for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and cultural heritage experiences like Pentecost Island’s land diving ritual. Recent figures show that more than 91% of visitors recommend Vanuatu as a destination, underscoring its appeal to global travelers.
Strengthening business ties, Prof. Aryee revealed that seven Ghanaian businesses have already established operations in Vanuatu, spanning agriculture, ICT, tourism, and trade a sign of growing bilateral engagement.
In a rousing finale, the Trade Commissioner announced a landmark investment: the Vanuatu Trade Commission, ECO-6, and ADCB are committing USD 200 million in AKL Lumi digital currency to GNAPS and its members. The initiative aims to expand access to innovative education, promote financial inclusion, and accelerate Ghana’s digital transformation.
The address ended with a standing ovation, reflecting the audience’s resounding support for his vision of a digitally empowered Africa.
