Former President John Mahama has urged African parliamentarians to strengthen their nations' sovereignty and uphold family values. He stated that Africa's future depends on strong identities and self-reliant institutions. Mahama believes that a confident Africa can lead its own destiny. He delivered this message at the 4th African Inter-Parliamentary Conference in Accra.
The conference, hosted by Speaker Alban Sumana Bagbin, gathered delegates from 20 African countries. Participants included lawmakers, policymakers, and civil society leaders. Mahama highlighted Ghana's historical role in African liberation. He recalled Kwame Nkrumah's vision of African self-rule. Uganda's leadership in promoting family values was also praised. Ghana pledged to support this vision of a united Africa.
Mahama stressed that sovereignty means more than just constitutional clauses. A truly sovereign nation must be able to feed its people. It must educate its children and protect its citizens. It must also create jobs for its youth. Financing one's own development is crucial for sovereignty. Any form of dependency weakens a nation. Africa must boost domestic production and support local businesses. Regional trade needs expansion. Economies should be built on African realities.
On family values, Mahama spoke of Africa's deep-rooted traditions. These traditions shape beliefs about marriage and community. Africa welcomes global engagement. However, it must define its own social and cultural norms. Our responsibility is to uphold our own values. Our laws and institutions must reflect our societies. Ghana's social fabric is shaped by communal living. Mutual responsibility and respect for elders are key. Institutions like the National House of Chiefs and faith leaders are vital for stability.
Mahama also addressed economic challenges facing African families. Rapid urbanisation and rising living costs are issues. Governments must implement family-centred policies. Social protection programmes are needed. Maternal and child health services are important. Creating opportunities for decent work is essential. Strong families need both values and opportunities. Hope for the youth is paramount. Hopelessness threatens African values. Young people who see opportunities become stakeholders. Lack of future makes them vulnerable to disillusionment.
Investment in quality education is vital. Dignified jobs and economic opportunities are necessary. This ensures young Africans protect their societies' values. Mahama reaffirmed Africa's commitment to cooperation. Mutual respect is important for international relations. Africa must retain the right to shape its future. History will judge Africa by its actions. It will judge by the courage to preserve values. Wisdom to reform and confidence to lead are key. The future of Africa will be written by Africans themselves. The conference should strengthen resolve to protect families and sovereignty. It should expand opportunities for the next generation.