During a high-profile summit in Japan, President John Mahama of Ghana delivered a powerful address to African leaders, emphasizing the urgency of peace, economic stability, and good governance as key pillars for Africa’s growth and development. His speech underscored critical challenges facing the continent and proposed a clear roadmap to unlock Africa’s vast potential by attracting greater investment.
President Mahama began by calling for an immediate end to conflicts across the continent, urging leaders to “silence the guns” to create an environment conducive to sustainable development. He highlighted the devastating impact that ongoing violence has on communities, economies, and international perceptions of Africa as a stable place for investment. “Peace is the first currency of progress,” Mahama remarked, stressing that no meaningful economic development is possible without security and stability.
Next, the Ghanaian president turned his attention to economic issues that must be addressed to ensure prosperity. He urged his counterparts to prioritize policies that stabilize national economies by controlling inflation, managing debt responsibly, and fostering inclusive growth that benefits all sectors of society. He argued that economic stability is essential to build investor confidence and to attract long-term capital inflows into key industries such as agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
In addition, Mahama delivered a strong message on governance and the fight against corruption. Describing corruption as a major barrier to investment and development, he called on African governments to adopt transparent and accountable systems. “Tackling corruption is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic necessity,” he said. The president emphasized the need to strengthen institutions, empower anti-corruption agencies, and promote the rule of law to create a trustworthy business environment.
President Mahama’s address also highlighted the importance of African unity and cooperation. He advocated for collective action to enhance regional integration and intra-African trade, believing that a cooperative continent will be better positioned to negotiate with global partners and attract investment on favorable terms.
In concluding his remarks, Mahama appealed to African leaders to seize the moment and commit to these priorities with a sense of urgency. He expressed optimism that if the continent can silence the guns, stabilize economies, and root out corruption, Africa will become a magnet for investors looking to participate in its vast emerging markets.
The summit in Japan provided a platform for African leaders to share insights and set ambitions for the future development of the continent. President Mahama’s call to action echoed the aspirations of many African nations seeking peace, prosperity, and sustainable growth through sound leadership and good governance.
About The Author
