President John Dramani Mahama has charged African leaders to pursue economic independence and prosperity, stressing the urgent need for value addition across the continent.

Speaking at the Jamhuri Day celebration in Kenya on December 12, 2025, President Mahama said Africa’s political independence should guide its leaders to always act in the best interest of their people.

“Our forebearers won independence for us. It is the responsibility of our current African leadership to win economic independence and prosperity for our people,” he stated.

President Mahama's China diplomacy powers Ghana's 24-Hour Economy

He highlighted the challenges Africa faces within the global economic order, noting that many systems are structured to position the continent mainly as a supplier of unprocessed raw materials while importing finished goods.

“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 said.

President Mahama also urged African countries to harness the creativity and energy of their youth while strengthening intra-African trade.

“We must increase trade among ourselves, and we recommend a trade protocol within the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he added.

SP/MA

All you need to know about Ghana's new vehicle number plates | BizTech: