President John Dramani Mahama has urged Africa to strengthen its economic independence, technological self-reliance, and continental unity, warning that the continent continues to face modern forms of domination despite decades of political independence.
Speaking at the 80th anniversary of the Fifth Pan-African Congress at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra on November 18, 2025, President Mahama emphasized that Africa’s abundant natural wealth has not translated into significant influence on the global stage.
“Africa remains a continent rich in natural resources but poor in global influence,” he stated. He noted that while colonial chains have been broken, Africa now grapples with “economic, technological, ideological, and political” forms of control.
He stressed that political independence was only the first step envisioned by the Pan-Africanists of 1945. “Political liberation must open the door to economic and social liberation,” Mahama said.
Reflecting on the historical significance of the Fifth Pan-African Congress, he noted that the 1945 gathering in Manchester “accelerated the liberation of our continent from colonial domination.” He recalled the contributions of leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah, George Padmore, W.E.B. Du Bois, Jomo Kenyatta, and Ras Makonnen, who championed the message: “Africa must take its destiny into its own hands … and the dignity of African people is not negotiable.”
President Mahama highlighted Africa’s current challenges, including economic transformation, climate justice, technological independence, and reforming global financial systems. He criticized the international community for perpetuating inequality, particularly in climate negotiations.
“Africa contributes least to global emissions yet suffers most,” he said. “We must approach global climate negotiations not as passive recipients of aid, but as equal partners demanding fairness, investment, and respect for our right to develop.”
As part of promoting continental integration, Mahama announced plans to create a League of African Free Movement Countries, starting with 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 toward a borderless Africa. “It is a shame that we still have to travel to each other’s countries asking for a visa.”
He also urged African leaders to focus on youth empowerment, noting that over 60% of the continent’s population is under 35.
“The next generation of Pan-Africanists will not gather in secret rooms. They will gather in innovation hubs, coding labs, creative studios, and digital communities,” Mahama concluded.
