Mahama to African Leaders: Back Words with Real Action for Youth and DemocracyW

President John Dramani Mahama has urged African leaders to go beyond rhetoric and deliver tangible results on democracy, governance, and development. He warned that citizens—particularly the youth—are losing patience with repeated promises that lack follow-through.

Addressing the 13th High-Level Dialogue on Democracy, Human Rights and Governance in Africa on Tuesday, July 29, President Mahama called for bold, transformative leadership and genuine commitment to inclusive development.

The dialogue, themed “Justice, Rights, Reparation, and State Building,” brought together policymakers, civil society actors, and governance experts to confront the continent’s structural and democratic challenges.

“This dialogue cannot become another ceremonial event filled with lofty speeches but void of action. Our citizens are watching and waiting,” Mahama stated.

He placed special emphasis on the demands and expectations of Africa’s youth, who make up the largest demographic group.

“Our young people are not asking for charity. They are demanding justice, fairness, opportunity, and an active role in shaping the future of this continent,” he said.

President Mahama reiterated the importance of the dialogue’s theme and emphasized a shared responsibility to address historical injustices and institutional weaknesses across Africa.

He concluded with a strong appeal to leaders and institutions:
“We must rise to the occasion not with rhetoric, but with clear, deliberate action that makes a real difference in people’s lives.”