Africa’s Global Influence Lagging Behind Resource Wealth. – President Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has called for a renewed push towards economic liberation, technological sovereignty, and stronger continental unity, warning that Africa continues to face new forms of domination despite decades of political independence.

Speaking at the 80th anniversary commemoration of the Fifth Pan-African Congress in Accra, President Mahama stated that Africa’s vast natural wealth has not translated into significant global influence. “Africa remains a continent rich in natural resources but poor in global influence,” he said, adding that the continent faces economic, technological, ideological, and political forms of domination.

The President stressed that political independence was only the first step towards achieving economic and social liberation, as envisioned by early Pan-Africanists. He reflected on the significance of the 1945 Manchester Congress, which accelerated Africa’s liberation from colonial domination, and paid tribute to historic figures like Kwame Nkrumah, George Padmore, and W.E.B. Du Bois.

President Mahama highlighted modern challenges, including economic transformation, climate justice, and technological independence, emphasizing that Africa’s youthful population, natural resources, and cultural dynamism must translate into real opportunities. He criticized the global financial architecture for undermining Africa’s progress, particularly in climate negotiations, saying, “Africa contributes least to global emissions yet suffers most.”

To deepen continental integration, President Mahama announced plans to form a League of African Free Movement Countries, initially comprising seven nations that will abolish visa requirements for each other’s citizens. “If any of our citizens want to travel to each other’s countries, they won’t require a visa,” he said, describing it as a step towards a borderless Africa.

The President urged African leaders to empower young people, noting that over 60% of the population is under 35. “The next generation of Pan-Africanists will gather in innovation hubs, coding labs, creative studios, and digital communities,” he said, emphasizing the need for Africa to take its destiny into its own hands.