Africa wants partnership not sympathy. President Mahama declares on AU Day
President John Dramani Mahama says Africa needs fair partnerships and opportunities, not sympathy, from the rest of the world as the continent moves to better the lives of its people.
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On the commemoration of the 53rd African Union (AU) Day yesterday, the President took to Facebook to trumpet the gains made by the continent in the journey towards sustainable development.
He said over the last decade, African countries had been working to improve further their democratic credentials and economic prospects.
“Africa is rising; there is no question about that. We are rising from violence and dictatorship to peace and democracy; we are transforming our economies from those based on the export of raw materials to modern ones able to produce value -added goods and services; we are rising from misery and absolute poverty to a place of hope and improved standards of living,” he wrote
He referred to the rate at which the African middle class was growing as a testament to the strides made by the continent.
“The African middle class is the fastest growing middle class in the world today,” the President, who is a former Chairman of the AU High-Level African Trade Committee (HATC), said.
While acknowledging the singleness of purpose with which Africa was driving global affairs, he said, “Our voice is now stronger and more respected in the world.”
More to do
Notwithstanding the progress made so far, he was quick to add that the picture did not mean all was encouraging, indicating that there was still some long distance to go, especially in matters regarding youth development.
“Of course, things are far from perfect in Africa and we still have a long way to go, especially when it comes to sustainable solutions for our youth,” he wrote.
Ghana’s input
President Mahama said the fact that Ghana was a leader in continental development was worth celebrating.
“I am happy that Ghana continues to lead this effort and is impacting our sub-region and the continent. This in itself is ensuring a powerful and positive impact on the well-being of millions and millions of people,” he stated.
While stressing the need not to deviate from the path chosen, he said, “Let us all continue on this path of transformation. Let us all keep working hard for a better future for our generation and generations yet to come.”
“Let us all unite in our common prayer for a more open and inclusive Africa where everyone will live a dignified and meaningful life,” President Mahama said.
Background
The African Union is the successor organisation to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) which was established on May 25, 1963.
The AU was established on May 26, 2001 but launched in South Africa on July 9, 2002.
The AU is committed to strengthening a people-centred union through active communication of its programmes, the branding of the union and the participation of member states and other stakeholders in defining and implementing the African agenda.