President John Dramani Mahama has urged a renewed effort towards economic freedom, technological independence, and enhanced unity across the continent, cautioning that Africa continues to encounter new forms of domination despite having achieved political independence for decades.
During the official inauguration of the 80th anniversary celebration of the Fifth Pan-African Congress at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, President Mahama remarked that Africa’s abundant natural resources have not resulted in substantial influence on the global arena.
“Africa remains a continent rich in natural resources but lacking in global influence,” he remarked, further noting that while the chains of colonialism have been severed, the continent now confronts “economic, technological, ideological, and political” forms of domination.
He emphasised that political independence was merely the initial step envisioned by the early Pan-Africanists who gathered in Manchester in 1945. “Political liberation must pave the way for economic and social liberation,” he asserted.
Reflecting on the importance of the Fifth Pan-African Congress, President Mahama highlighted that the 1945 assembly marked “the turning point that hastened the liberation of our continent from colonial rule.”
He reminisced about the contributions of historical figures such as Kwame Nkrumah, George Padmore, W.E.B. Du Bois, Jomo Kenyatta, and Ras Makonnen, stating that they embodied the aspirations of millions and conveyed a clear message: “Africa must take its destiny into its own hands … and the dignity of African people is non-negotiable.”
The President warned that Africa’s contemporary challenges are increasingly intricate, pointing to the fight for economic transformation, climate justice, technological autonomy, and a more equitable global financial system.
He asserted that Africa’s youthful demographic, natural resources, and cultural vibrancy must be converted into tangible opportunities.
He also expressed his disapproval of the current global political and financial systems for hindering Africa’s advancement, especially in climate discussions.
“Africa contributes the least to global emissions yet bears the brunt of the consequences,” he stated.
“We must engage in global climate discussions not merely as passive recipients of assistance, but as equal partners advocating for fairness, investment, and recognition of our right to progress.”
In an effort to enhance continental integration, President Mahama revealed plans to establish a League of African Free Movement Countries, an initial coalition of seven nations that will eliminate visa requirements for each other’s citizens.
“I will communicate with the Presidents of the seven nations. If any of our citizens wish to travel to one another’s countries, they will not need a visa,” he remarked, characterising the initiative as the first step towards a borderless Africa.
“It is regrettable that we still need to seek visas to visit each other’s countries.”
Mr Mahama called upon African leaders to prioritise the empowerment of youth, highlighting that over 60 percent of the continent’s population is under the age of 35.
“The upcoming generation of Pan-Africanists will not convene in secretive locations. They will assemble in innovation hubs, coding laboratories, creative studios, and digital communities,” he asserted.
