Mahama: Africa Rich in Resources but Lacks Global Influence
Mahama urges Africa to convert its resource wealth and youthful energy into global influence, technological independence, and regional unity
- Africa is rich in resources but remains weak in global influence, says Mahama
- Calls for economic, technological, and social liberation to match political independence
- Stresses climate justice, fair global financial systems, and youth empowerment
President John Dramani Mahama has urged a renewed push for Africa’s economic independence, technological sovereignty, and continental unity, warning that despite decades of political freedom, the continent still faces modern forms of domination.
Speaking at the 80th anniversary of the Fifth Pan-African Congress at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Mahama said Africa’s vast natural wealth has not translated into real influence on the world stage.
“Africa remains a continent rich in natural resources but poor in global influence,” he said, adding that while colonial chains have been broken, new economic, technological, ideological, and political pressures persist.
Highlighting the historic significance of the 1945 Manchester congress, Mahama praised pioneers like Kwame Nkrumah, George Padmore, W.E.B. Du Bois, Jomo Kenyatta, and Ras Makonnen for championing Africa’s liberation and urging the continent to take its destiny into its own hands.
Mahama pointed out that modern challenges—economic transformation, climate justice, technological independence, and equitable global financial participation—require bold action.
“Africa contributes least to global emissions yet suffers most,” he said, emphasizing that climate negotiations must treat African nations as equal partners demanding fairness and investment.
In a bid to strengthen continental integration, Mahama announced the creation of a League of African Free Movement Countries, starting with seven nations that will abolish visa requirements for each other’s citizens, marking a first step toward a borderless Africa.
He also stressed the importance of empowering Africa’s youthful population, noting that more than 60 percent of citizens are under 35. “The next generation of Pan-Africanists will meet in innovation hubs, coding labs, creative studios, and digital communities,” he said.
