Former South African President Jacob Zuma has urged the creation of an African-owned trading platform to strengthen intra-continental commerce and reduce the continent’s reliance on foreign financial systems.

Speaking as keynote speaker at the 2025 Annual Leadership Lecture of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), held at the Kofi Ohene-Konadu Auditorium, Mr. Zuma said such a platform would prioritise African goods and services, promote self-reliance, and protect the continent from external economic shocks.

The event brought together dignitaries from academia, government, and the clergy, including former Ghanaian President John Agyekum Kufuor.

Addressing the theme “The Geopolitics and Geo-Economics of De-dollarisation: BRICS Currency Strategy, Lessons for Africa’s Common Currency and Beyond,” the former president argued that Africa’s dependence on foreign currencies, particularly the US dollar, perpetuates economic dependency rooted in colonial history.


How much fuel does the Black Stars' bus really take?

A single African currency, he noted, could help dismantle this system and unlock the continent’s vast economic potential.

Recalling his role in the formation of BRICS, Mr. Zuma highlighted the resistance its founding leaders encountered, including attempts to undermine their countries. “BRICS is the future for Africa. We have modelled our economies to serve others with little benefit. It is time to look elsewhere,” he stated.

He maintained that the bloc’s success proves Africa can overcome global economic inequalities through unity and strategic partnerships.

Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, described the lecture as a crucial platform for shaping both national and international discourse on pressing challenges.

Established in 2017, the UPSA Annual Leadership Lecture has featured prominent speakers such as former President Kufuor, the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Cardinal Peter Turkson, economist Kwame Pianim, and Lord Paul Boateng.