Former President John Mahama called for Africa to gain permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council. He voiced this during a five-day visit to the United Kingdom. Mr. Mahama spoke at a prominent policy institute called Chatham House. His presentation focused on Ghana’s strategic priorities in a changing world. He argued that current global systems are not fair to Africa. He believes this exclusion is a historical wrong.
Mr. Mahama stated Ghana envisions a fairer international system. He said institutions like Chatham House are vital. They offer space to understand and shape global changes. He reiterated Ghana’s support for reforming the UN. Africa's lack of permanent seats on the Security Council is a significant imbalance. This weakens the credibility of global decision-making bodies. The UN Security Council is meant to maintain international peace and security.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep global inequalities. Mr. Mahama noted that access to medical supplies depended on a country's position. Many African nations faced delays for essential items. This highlighted the risks of over-reliance on outside systems. Vulnerabilities in critical sectors became national security issues. In response, Ghana started the Accra Reset Initiative. This plan aims to rebuild national strengths.
The Accra Reset Initiative focuses on many areas. These include public health, drug manufacturing, and vaccine production. It also targets digital infrastructure, food security, and industrial growth. Strategic financial planning is also a priority. Mr. Mahama emphasized this is not against international cooperation. It is a call for respectful, equal partnerships. He said future global systems must be built on dignity.
Ghana sees African integration as essential. It is both an economic and geopolitical need. The world is experiencing fragmented supply chains. Trade blocs are shifting. Economic nationalism is rising. Africa must build its own economic strength. The African Continental Free Trade Area is key to this. It is headquartered in Accra. It is a major project for economic change.
If successful, the AfCFTA can boost trade within Africa. It can increase industrial production. Regional value chains will strengthen. Africa will rely less on outside economic shocks. African economies have often exported raw materials. They then import finished goods at higher prices. This model is not sustainable. Ghana is committed to industrial growth. It aims to add value to its exports. Regional economic cooperation is a core goal.