Renowned development economist, entrepreneur, and author of Black Capitalists, Dr Rachel Naa-Du Laryea, has applauded the governments of Ghana and Zambia following the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
Dr Laryea, a US-based academic and respected financial researcher, holds two PhDs, showcasing her academic distinction and depth in economic analysis and wealth research.
Her scholarly work focuses on development economics, asset wealth creation, capital systems, and financial inclusion, particularly within emerging markets.
Currently serving as an Asset Wealth Researcher at JPMorgan Chase, she uniquely combines rigorous academic training with real-world financial expertise, establishing herself as a strong advocate for African economic transformation.
Describing the Ghana-Zambia MoU as both strategic and timely, she said the agreement reflects a growing realization among African leaders that the continent’s true power lies in strengthening intra-African ties.
“It is laudable if Africans invest in themselves,” she stated, emphasising that sustainable development will accelerate when African countries prioritise internal trade, shared infrastructure, and local capital mobilisation.
Drawing from her research and insights in Black Capitalists, Dr Laryea has consistently advocated for building strong African-owned enterprises and financial systems that empower communities from within.
Her academic work challenges traditional development models that rely heavily on foreign aid and instead promotes capital ownership, wealth retention, and institutional strengthening across the continent.
From a policy perspective, she noted that bilateral agreements such as the Ghana–Zambia partnership can foster joint research initiatives, industrial cooperation, youth entrepreneurship programs, and cross-border investment frameworks.
She highlighted agriculture, energy, mining, technology, and education as key sectors where collaboration could yield measurable economic gains.
Dr Laryea also linked the MoU to the broader objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), stating that such country-to-country agreements serve as practical steps toward full continental integration.
She stressed that academic research, data-driven policy, and evidence-based economic planning must underpin these partnerships to ensure long-term impact.
Dr Rachel Naa-Du Laryea urged African nations to pursue development strategies grounded in scholarship, innovation, and self-belief.
According to her, Africa’s economic renaissance will be driven by informed leadership, strong institutions, and deliberate investment in African intellectual and financial capital.
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