President Pledges to fight 'humiliating' problems of Africa

President John Agyekum Kufuor on Tuesday reaffirmed his commitment to co-operate with fellow African heads of state in confronting the political and socio-economic challenges plaguing the continent.

Speaking with the African group of the diplomatic corps, Mr Kufuor described as 'humiliating' the social political and economic discomfiture of the continent caused by poverty, diseases, debt and the scourge of war and which continue to wreak havoc on its peoples.

He assured the envoys of good governance under his leadership, saying it is the belief of his government that it is only in true freedom that the people's hidden potentials could be liberated and harnessed, especially the youth in the task of nation building.

"The success of our leadership must be measured not only by our commitment to a visible improvement in the living standards of our people but also to the principles of democracy, good governance and the rule of law."

Members of the group, led by Ambassador Elwood Greaves of Liberia, called at the State House to express support for the new government.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for the government and the representatives of the various African states to renew bonds of co-operation in confronting the challenges, especially of economic and political instability.

"Great challenges face us as leaders of our people to build and sustain peace on our continent and develop institutions and structures that will ensure sustainable economic development for our people," President Kufuor said.

Congratulating the President, his team and Ghanaians for successful elections, Ambassador Greaves said it is an achievement that would continue to inspire and give impetus to the quest for democracy, good governance, and respect for human rights in the continent.

"The road Ghana has charted at the dawn of Africa's awakening by being the first African state, south of the Sahara to breath the air of freedom, is being continued by Ghana once again being among the few, but important countries, to effect a change of government through the ballot box."

Mr Greaves lauded Mr Kufuor's pledge to good governance, rule of law and corrupt-free administration saying these virtues place him firmly along the new generation of leadership in the continent.