President John Dramani Mahama has urged African leaders to take greater responsibility in shaping the continent’s role in the global economy, stressing the need for bold and strategic action.
Speaking at the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Tokyo, Japan, Mahama said Africa must position itself as a credible player in international trade and investment at a time when the global order is rapidly changing.
“We are holding the TICAD 9 against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world order. Multilateralism is on the retreat, and countries are increasingly acting unilaterally in their relationships with the rest of the world,” he noted.
He further warned that rising trade tensions could have lasting consequences on global prosperity. “The recent round of tariffs and retaliatory tariffs has sparked world trade and the global economy. The full effect of these trade wars will have a ripple effect on global growth and prosperity for years to come,” he cautioned.
Highlighting Africa’s potential, President Mahama reaffirmed the continent’s readiness for global partnerships while urging leaders to do more on their part. “Africa is open for business, and it is the next frontier for trade and investment,” he said, emphasising that while platforms such as TICAD remain vital, “the ultimate responsibility lies with African leaders to create a conducive environment for trade and investment.”
Mahama’s call comes at a time when Africa continues to explore pathways for deeper integration into the global economy, with emphasis on leveraging partnerships without neglecting internal reforms and responsibilities.
