Mahama Urges Africa to Add Value to Exports and Boost Intra-Continental Trade
President Mahama calls on African leaders to prioritize value addition, accountable governance, and stronger intra-continental trade
- Mahama urges Africa to process raw materials locally rather than exporting them unprocessed.
- He calls for stronger trade among African nations under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
- Mahama emphasizes accountable governance and harnessing the creativity and energy of Africa’s youth for economic growth
President John Dramani Mahama has urged African leaders to focus on economic independence, prosperity, and accountable governance, stressing the importance of value addition and enhanced regional trade.
Speaking at the Jamhuri Day celebrations in Kenya on Friday, December 12, 2025, President Mahama reminded leaders of the legacy of Africa’s forebearers, saying:
“Our forebearers won independence for us. It is the duty of current African leadership to achieve economic independence and prosperity for our people.”
He highlighted the challenges Africa faces in the global economy, noting that many systems still position the continent primarily as a supplier of unprocessed raw materials, while finished products are imported.
“The time has come for us to add value to our exports, claim a fair share of our natural resources, and ensure transparent and accountable leadership,” he said.
President Mahama also emphasized the need to harness the energy and creativity of Africa’s youth and called for increased intra-African trade.
“We must trade more among ourselves, and we recommend implementing a trade protocol under the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he added.
