Govt, private sector must come together for youths

The event was the annual trade and investment symposium hosted by the Emancipation Support Committee as part of Emancipation Day celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago. The theme of this year’s symposium was “Reinventing the Triangle V.” Chambas said it was important to institutionalise business linkages between Africa and its diaspora because the level of trade in this area currently stands at a dismal 15 percent.

He observed that by increasing the levels of trade between Africa and its diaspora, more employment opportunities will be created for young people and will encourage them to make something of themselves.

In the year 1881, the Emancipation Street procession “Kamboule” riots took place to protest the British Colonial Government’s oppression. Chambas said that colonial oppression or boundaries are no longer a hindrance to trade, and now is the time for countries to increase their trading endeavours. He noted that with the increase of trade, the country can look forward to seeing many changes.

For example, the creation of a common agricultural policy as 80 percent of the livelihood of Africans stem from agriculture, and farmers need access to the market. Additionally, creation of value added production, which would be realised by looking and investing in new markets. It was expressed that with the bliss of emancipation comes new opportunities to strengthen African communities especially in the area of trading solid minerals.

Chambas concluded by stating that his vision of West Africa is one of a stable, peaceful, democratic nation.