Ghana’s President Mahama Pledges Support for Jamaica and Calls for African Unity and Economic Transformation

Story by Fada Amakye

Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has pledged the country’s support for Jamaica following a devastating disaster, announcing plans to send engineers, masons, carpenters, and other experts to aid in relief efforts and provide tarpaulins for makeshift shelters.

Speaking at a conference marking the 80th anniversary of the historic fifth Pan-African Congress, President Mahama emphasized the need for African unity and economic transformation. He highlighted Africa’s rich natural resources and youthful population, but lamented the continent’s poor global influence and widespread unemployment, undereducation, and exclusion from opportunities.

:Key Points from President Mahama’s Speech:

-Emphasizing the need for unity and economic transformation to address Africa’s challenges.

-Pledging Ghana’s support for Jamaica in the aftermath of the disaster.

-Calling for a fairer global financial order, technological sovereignty, and climate justice.

-Renewing a covenant of responsibility, unity, and commitment to building an Africa worthy of its heritage.

President Mahama’s call for African unity and economic transformation is part of a broader effort to strengthen the continent’s global influence and address historical injustices. He has been advocating for reparations for Africa and people of African descent, and plans to file a motion at the United Nations to declare slavery one of the greatest crimes in history.

The President’s vision for Africa’s future is centered around economic self-reliance, technological advancement, and fairer global trade practices. He has also been promoting the African Continental Free Trade Area as a key initiative to boost intra-African trade and economic growth.

As Africa commemorates the 62nd anniversary of the OAU’s founding, President Mahama’s address seeks to reinvigorate discussions about continental unity and the pursuit of historical justice. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the African Union’s reparations agenda, with a focus on education, cultural heritage, and economic empowerment.

The conference, held in Accra, brought together delegates from across Africa and the diaspora to renew their commitment to building an Africa worthy of the sacrifices of those who came before. The event was attended by prominent figures, including former African Union Commission Chairperson, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, and Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Shirley Ayitey.

President Mahama’s speech was widely praised by delegates, who commended his vision for a united and prosperous Africa. The conference ended with a call to action, urging Africans to work together to address the continent’s challenges and build a brighter future for all.