Invest in Africa: Build a Thriving Local Market

 The Pan-African Manufacturers Association (PAMA) on Tuesday urged Africans to prioritize made-in-Africa products, especially during the current period of global trade uncertainty.

 

PAMA President, Mansur Ahmed, speaking in the February report of the body, stated that African markets had, for decades, been flooded with imported goods.

 

While this provided a short-term solution for immediate needs, he warned it posed an existential threat to Africa’s industrial future.

 

Ahmed noted that continued reliance on imports was now at a dangerous crossroads, as global trade wars intensified under renewed “America First” policies from President Trump’s administration.

 

“Building a resilient manufacturing sector is not just an economic necessity but a strategic imperative for Africa’s future,” he emphasised.

 

He explained that when Africans choose local products, they support their economies while driving innovation and improving industry quality standards.

 

“This, in turn, strengthens the manufacturing sector, reducing vulnerability to external shocks and fostering a more competitive, self-sustaining economy,” he added.

 

Ahmed warned that failing to prioritise made-in-Africa products could have severe and far-reaching consequences.

 

He said it could also undermine Africa’s economic sovereignty and its ambitious integration goals under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

 

The PAMA president called on African governments and stakeholders to collaborate with the association to protect and promote local manufacturers’ interests.

 

He proposed launching a continent-wide public awareness campaign for “Buy Made-in-Africa.”

 

According to him, such an initiative would help create a culture of indigenous patronage.

 

Ahmed urged African governments to assist industries, especially Small and Medium Industries (SMIs), in obtaining certifications to boost consumer trust and product acceptance.

 

“Many African countries lack clear industrial policies to support local production,” he said.

 

He advised governments to work with development institutions and stakeholders to implement policies that encourage local processing.

 

Ahmed also called on African manufacturers to focus on producing high-quality, durable, and competitively priced goods that meet international standards.

 

He encouraged manufacturers to enhance their brand identities, improve packaging, and embrace digital marketing to strengthen consumer perception and increase demand. (NAN)