President Mahama on AU Day: Africa needs opportunities, not sympathy

President John Dramani Mahama has urged Africa to continue working to secure a better future for the next generation as the continent celebrates the 53rd African Union day today, May 25.

In a statement to commemorate the day, President Mahama also praised the role Ghana has played in the sub-region saying it had ensured “a powerful and positive impact on the well-being of millions of people.”

‘Africa is rising’
President Mahama, the erstwhile Chairperson of the African Union’s (AU’s) High-Level African Trade Committee, hailed the strides Africa has made in political and economic spheres.
Related Stories

Migration not new to Africa – Mahama

Ghana now 5th democratic country in Africa – Mahama

Ghana not 2nd most corrupt in Africa – Mahama
“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.

Africa needs opportunity not sympathy
Whilst acknowledging the difficulties that have plagued African countries, President Mahama insisted that Africa required more opportunities and not sympathy from the rest of the world.
“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. However, our voice is now stronger and more respected in the world. We no longer need sympathy – we need fair partnerships and opportunities.”

Below is President Mahama’s full address commemorating AU Day
My brothers and sisters, today we celebrate Mother Africa. Over the last decade, African countries, like our beloved Ghana, have been working to improve further our democratic credentials and economic prospects.

I am happy that Ghana continues to lead this effort and is impacting our subregion and the continent. This in itself is ensuring a powerful and positive impact on the wellbeing of millions and millions of people.
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.

Ghanapoliticsonline.com
The African middle class is the fastest growing middle class in the world today.
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. However, our voice is now stronger and more respected in the world. We no longer need sympathy – we need fair partnerships and opportunities.
Let us all continue on this path of transformation. Let us all keep working hard for a better future for our generation and the generations yet to come.
Let us all unite in our common prayer for a more open and inclusive Africa, where everyone would live a dignified and meaningful life.
May God bless Mother Africa, our forebears and all our brothers and sisters!
President John Dramani Mahama
–
By: Delali Adogla-Bessa