President John Dramani Mahama has urged a renewed focus on economic liberation, technological independence, and stronger continental unity. He warned that Africa still faces new 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 said Africa’s vast natural wealth has not yet translated into significant global influence.
“Africa remains a continent rich in natural resources but poor in global influence,” he said.Manchester in 1945. “Political liberation must open the door to economic and social liberation,” he added.
Reflecting on the Fifth Pan-African Congress, Mahama described the 1945 gathering as “the turning point that accelerated the liberation of our continent from colonial domination.”
He praised historic figures such as Kwame Nkrumah, George Padmore, W.E.B. Du Bois, Jomo Kenyatta, and Ras Makonnen for carrying the hopes of millions. “Africa must take its destiny into its own hands … and the dignity of African people is not negotiable,” he said.
The President highlighted Africa’s modern challenges, including economic transformation, climate justice, technological independence, and a fair global financial system.
Mahama also criticised global political and financial structures for undermining African progress, particularly in climate negotiations. “Africa contributes least to global emissions yet suffers most,” he noted. “We must approach global climate negotiations not as passive recipients, but as equal partners demanding fairness, investment, and respect for our right to develop.”
To strengthen continental integration, the President announced plans to create a League of African Free Movement Countries. Seven nations will initially abolish visa requirements for citizens traveling between them.
“I will write to the Presidents of the seven countries. If any of our citizens want to travel to each other’s countries, they won’t require a visa,” he said. “It is a shame that we still have to travel to each other’s countries asking for a visa.”
President Mahama also urged African leaders to prioritise youth empowerment, noting that over 60 percent of the continent’s population is under 35.
“The next generation of Pan-Africanists will not meet in secret rooms. They will gather in innovation hubs, coding labs, creative studios, and digital communities,” he concluded.
