By Buertey Francis BORYOR
African countries have been urged to reduce dependence on foreign powers for trade, financing and development support so the continent can strengthen its voice and influence in global affairs.
In a keynote address delivered on his behalf at the AFLIGA 6th Fireside Dialogue in Accra, Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin – the event’s guest of honour – said the continent will struggle to shape major global decisions if it continues to rely heavily on external powers while remaining economically vulnerable and politically divided.
The dialogue, organised by the Africa Future Leaders Institute of Global Affairs to commemorate African Union Day, was held on the topic ‘Africa’s Role and Agency in Global Affairs: Past, Present and Future Prospects and Challenges’. It brought together diplomats, academics, policy experts and young leaders to discuss the continent’s place in a changing global order.
Mr. Bagbin said the continent’s relationship with some foreign powers has over the years created unequal systems that continue to undermine its economic and political progress. He questioned why it still remains underrepresented at the United Nations Security Council despite its growing population and natural resources.
“The era when powerful countries determine the continent’s direction must end. Africa must speak with one voice. African countries must build partnerships based on mutual respect and shared benefit rather than dependency. The continent’s future continent cannot be outsourced,” he also said.
He further called for stronger African institutions capable of driving development and protecting the continent’s long-term interests. He added that many of the continent’s countries continue to struggle because leaders often build systems around personalities instead of building strong institutions. “The causal link has always been bad governance and institutional weakness,” he said.
Moreover, he warned that frustration among youth across the continent is growing because of unemployment, poverty and limited economic opportunities, urging leaders to pay greater attention to young people’s needs before the situation worsens. “The youth of today are not passive and submissive like previous generations. They are bold and impatient for change,” he said.
He urged the continent’s governments to invest more in education, technology, entrepreneurship and digital transformation to help create jobs and prepare young people for the future economy. He also encouraged stronger support for local industries, research institutions and ‘African innovation’.
Furthermore, Mr. Bagbin urged the continent to embrace artificial intelligence, renewable energy and modern agriculture to strengthen economic growth and improve food security. He also expressed optimism about the continent’s future, describing its youthful population as one of its greatest strengths.
“Africa is the world’s youngest and fastest-growing continent. Investing in young people is investing in the future of the world,” he said. The Speaker also highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area’s importance, saying stronger intra-African trade can help reduce dependence on external markets and strengthen African economies.
He called for greater regional solidarity and stronger coordination among countries on major global issues, arguing that the continent will gain more influence internationally if it negotiates collectively.
Also addressing the event, Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Zimbabwe to Ghana, Kupa Ego Chinonza, said the continent’s unity remains critical at a time of growing global uncertainty and changing international dynamics.
He said stronger cooperation among the continent’s countries will help it negotiate from a position of strength while protecting its sovereignty and development priorities. He also stressed the need to improve opportunities for women and young people, saying they remain central to the continent’s future growth and stability.
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