President John Dramani Mahama has issued a powerful call for bold and urgent reforms to tackle the lingering effects of slavery, colonialism, and systemic inequality still gripping Africa.
Speaking at the African Union High-Level Dialogue on Democracy, Governance, and Human Rights in Accra, President Mahama — who also serves as the AU Champion for Reparative Justice — warned that symbolic gestures are no longer enough.
“Our citizens are watching and waiting. Our young people comprise the majority of our population and are growing increasingly impatient. They are not asking for charity. They demand fairness,” he said, urging leaders to shift from ceremonial discussions to meaningful action.
Mahama emphasized that Africa’s development must be shaped by African realities — not borrowed models.
“We gather here not only to examine this painful past, but also to shape a difference and a better future for our continent, where African agency, sovereignty, and dignity are restored and respected,” he stated.
Drawing from Ghana’s pan-African legacy, Mahama reaffirmed the country’s longstanding commitment to justice and unity — from the vision of Kwame Nkrumah to present-day efforts for democratic consolidation and reparative justice.
He stressed that civil society, the African diaspora, and evolving national institutions are ready for change, and urged governments to meet that momentum with clear policies and decisive governance.
“This dialogue cannot afford to become another ceremonial event filled with lofty speeches but void of action,” Mahama concluded.
The dialogue brought together AU officials, civil society groups, and international stakeholders to reflect on the continent’s democratic challenges and opportunities.
