At the vibrant Jamhuri Day celebrations in Kenya on Friday, December 12, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama delivered a powerful call to action to African leaders, urging them to prioritize economic independence and prosperity for the continent’s people.
Standing before a gathering of dignitaries and citizens, President Mahama reminded the audience of Africa’s journey to political freedom. “Our forebearers won for us independence. It is the responsibility of our current African leadership to win economic independence and prosperity for our people,” he declared, his voice carrying both pride and urgency.
Addressing the persistent challenges Africa faces in the global economic system, President Mahama lamented the continent’s longstanding role as a mere supplier of unprocessed raw materials while relying on imported finished goods. He stressed that this pattern must change if Africa is to achieve true prosperity.
“The time has come for us to add value to our exports. The time has come to claim a fairer share of our natural resource endowment. The time has come to provide transparent and accountable leadership,” he stated, calling on African governments to embrace transformation and good governance.
President Mahama also highlighted the continent’s greatest asset, its youth. He encouraged leaders to harness the creativity and energy of Africa’s young people, channeling their potential into productive industries and innovation.
Central to his message was the importance of strengthening trade within Africa’s borders. “We must increase trade among ourselves, and we recommend a trade protocol within the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he urged, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration to boost economic growth.
As the celebrations continued, President Mahama’s words resonated with hope and determination, a vision of an Africa that moves beyond dependence, builds wealth from within, and secures a brighter future for generations to come.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
