Ghana and China have renewed their commitment to advancing electric mobility in Africa with the launch of the 2025 China-Africa Automotive Development Forum, hosted at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi.

The event, organised in partnership with Hubei University of Automotive Technology (HUAT) and the Confucius Institute at KNUST, was under the theme “Intelligent Manufacturing of Lightweight Electric Vehicles.”

It brought together automotive engineers, researchers, and policymakers from across Africa and China to exchange knowledge and chart a collaborative future for the continent’s transport industry.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, KNUST Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor David Asamoah called the forum a strategic intervention at a time when the global automotive industry is pivoting toward clean energy and smart mobility.

“This transition offers Africa a rare opportunity to leapfrog into sustainable industrial development,” Asamoah said.

He announced the establishment of the International Joint Research Centre for Advanced Automotive Energy Storage Materials and Systems, a project he said would shape the future of mobility in Africa.

President of HUAT, Professor Wang Xiao, said the university’s partnership with KNUST represents more than just technical collaboration.

“This is a bridge for mutual development, linking language, engineering, and innovation to support a shared China-Africa future,” he said.

Representing Ghana’s Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Ing. Seth Maahu said electric mobility offers dual benefits of emissions reduction and industrial transformation. He noted government efforts to expand the EV charging infrastructure using solar and hybrid systems, and highlighted ongoing work with universities to develop green economy training programmes.

Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene echoed the call for local policy support.

“Africa has a chance to industrialise in smarter, cleaner ways. But success depends on investment in policy, people, and infrastructure,” he said.

Mr. Tang Hong, President of the Ghana Association of Chinese Societies, said the event marked a milestone in deepening China-Ghana economic ties. “The automotive sector is a strategic engine for development. Through this forum, we aim to match Africa’s unique mobility needs with China’s manufacturing strengths,” he said.

He added that more Chinese firms were localising vehicle assembly in Africa, contributing to job creation and regional growth.

Minister-Counselor Li Yang who spoke on behalf of Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E Tong Defa also praised Africa’s growing role in the global economy and reaffirming China’s support for technology transfer, industrial cooperation, and sustainable development across the continent.

The event also featured presentations from Ms. Yang Yang, CEO of Zonda Tec Ghana Limited and car exhibitions.