“Africa Does Not Seek Charity; We Seek Equal Partnership” – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has called for a change in the way Africa’s development is financed, saying the continent needs fair and equal partnerships rather than charity.

Speaking at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York on Thursday, September 24, 2026, President Mahama said African countries require long-term, affordable and accessible financing to support human capital development, industrialisation and climate adaptation.

“We demand reform. We need long-term, affordable, and accessible concessionary financing that enables developing economies to invest in human capital, industrialisation, and climate adaptation,” he said.

President Mahama stressed that Africa should be treated as an equal partner in global development efforts.

“Africa does not seek charity. Africa seeks equal partnership anchored in mutual respect,” he said.

He said Africa’s young population, vast arable land, cultural resources and critical minerals position the continent as an important partner in addressing emerging global challenges.

“Our continent possesses the world’s youngest population, vast arable land, unparalleled cultural vitality, and the critical minerals required to drive the global green energy transition,” he said.

The President also called for reforms to the international financial system and improved access to affordable financing for developing countries.

He maintained that such financing would be essential for African countries to strengthen human capital, industrialise their economies and build resilience against climate change.