Africa Must Break Economic Chains for Real Freedom After Slavery Recognition

Story by Fada Amakye

Ghana’s landmark achievement at the UN, securing global recognition of slavery as the gravest crime against humanity, marks a pivotal moment for Africa. However, Hon. Alhaji Seidu Agongo argues that recognition alone is not enough; Africa must break free from economic chains that perpetuate dependence and hinder development.

Agongo highlights that economic dependence is the danger of today, with Africa exporting raw materials and importing finished goods at high prices. He cites Ghana’s cocoa industry, where farmers earn minimal profits despite their hard work, as an example of exploitation. The continent’s vast resources, including gold, bauxite, and lithium, are being extracted without adequate benefits to local communities.

The writer urges Ghana and Africa to ask harsh questions about their economic models and prioritize domestic processing, industrialization, and local entrepreneurship. He cites examples of countries like Zimbabwe, Guinea, and Gabon mandating local processing of raw materials, and China’s rise through industrialization. Hon. Agongo notes that no nation can grow its way out of poverty without industrialization, emphasizing the need for Africa to add value to its raw materials.

Furthermore, Agongo stresses the importance of creating policies that support local businesses and entrepreneurs, rather than favoring foreign capital. He advocates for partnerships that promote co-creation, shared expertise, and mutual growth, rather than exploitation. The writer also highlights the need for Africa to prioritize local consumption, encouraging citizens to buy products made in Africa.

The article concludes that Africa must break economic chains through business and entrepreneurship, ensuring that the new scramble for Africa benefits local communities and future generations. Agongo calls for unity, putting Africa’s interests above party politics, and creating industrial policies that outlive governments. He emphasizes that national priorities should not change with every election cycle, and that Africa must take control of its economic destiny.

The recognition of slavery as a crime against humanity is a significant step, but it is only the beginning. Africa must now take concrete actions to address the economic legacies of slavery and colonialism, and build a prosperous future for its people. By doing so, Africa can truly break free from the chains of dependence and achieve real freedom.