Barbados’ commercial and cultural attaché to Ghana, C. Phil Phillips, says Africa may feel distant to the Caribbean, but it holds immense opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange that the region should not ignore.
Speaking with the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) during the Fourth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025), which ended on Wednesday, Phillips described Africa as “the go-to place” as traditional markets face challenges.
“Yes, it’s unfamiliar. Yes, it seems far in terms of distance, but it is worth exploring,” Phillips said. “As you start to see more and more quick wins, you’re going to see more and more participation.”
Barbados is among the first CARICOM states to establish a high commission in Ghana, alongside Suriname’s embassy in Accra and Jamaica’s high commission in Abuja, Nigeria. Phillips suggested that Caribbean countries should coordinate their diplomatic strategies, noting that Barbados is open to partnerships with other regional governments considering a presence in Ghana.
At this year’s fair, Barbados, The Bahamas, and Grenada represented the Caribbean, though Grenada did not have a booth. Phillips said many visitors to the Barbados booth were learning about the country for the first time — a sign, he argued, that the initiative is helping close the knowledge gap between the two regions.
Barbados showcased locally made drinks and biscuits, while respecting Ghana’s Muslim traditions by not displaying its most famous export, rum. Phillips pointed out, however, that Barbadian rum is already doing well in Accra supermarkets.
In the four years since opening its high commission in Accra, Barbados has signed several agreements with Ghanaian institutions, including the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority, while also building cultural partnerships with groups such as the Black Star Experience and the Ministry of Sports.
Looking ahead, Phillips said Barbados hopes to deepen commercial and cultural diplomacy with Africa. He highlighted the upcoming Grow, Unite, Build Africa (GUBA) Awards, scheduled for November in Barbados, which will include a direct charter flight to facilitate travel for participants facing visa challenges.
“With Africa’s young population and tremendous growth potential, the only path is further development,” Phillips said. “That means more opportunities for the Caribbean to do business with people we are familiar with. Ultimately, we want to see thriving trade and tourism between Barbados, the wider Caribbean, and West Africa.”
