Accra, Ghana – 18–19 November 2025.
At the International Conference Commemorating the 5th Pan-African Congress, the President of the Republic of Ghana HE. JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA delivered a landmark speech calling for deeper cooperation among African nations, emphasizing free movement of people, inter-state solidarity, and a renewed continental agenda on reparations.
Speaking before delegates, scholars, youth leaders and pan-African activists, he highlighted that the future of Africa depends on breaking artificial borders, strengthening unity, and building practical continental frameworks that empower African citizens.
A Bold Commitment: Free Movement Among 7 African Countries
In a major announcement, the President revealed that Ghana is currently in advanced discussions with seven African nations to establish a common free-movement corridor.
“Africa cannot rise while Africans are locked behind borders drawn by colonial powers. Free movement is not a luxury it is a necessity for development, for unity, and for dignity,” he affirmed.
This initiative aims to:
- Facilitate visa-free entry, stay and work rights for citizens of participating countries,
- Enhance trade, tourism, and cultural exchange,
- Boost regional security through coordinated mechanisms,
- Strengthen continental cohesion in line with AU Agenda 2063.
The President also extended an open invitation to other African nations:
“Our door is wide open. Any African country ready to join this movement of unity and progress is welcome.”
Reparations: A Continental Issue, Not a National One
The conference centered around Reparation, Historical Justice and Restoration of African Dignity served as the ideal platform for the President to reaffirm Ghana’s leadership on the global reparations agenda.
He stressed that reparations must not be reduced to financial compensation alone, but must encompass:
- Historical truth
- Cultural restoration
- Economic restructuring
- Technological empowerment
- Institutional reform
- And the psychological healing of African peoples
He declared that Ghana will continue to engage with African governments and global institutions to ensure that reparations become a continent-wide, coordinated, and irreversible process.
Solidarity Between African States: “We Must Look Each Other in the Eyes”
In one of the strongest parts of his speech, the President addressed internal African conflicts especially between countries such as the DR Congo and Rwanda, whose tensions continue to destabilize the region.
He stated firmly:
“We cannot demand justice from the world if we cannot bring justice among ourselves.
Africans must be able to look each other in the eyes, speak the truth, and find African solutions to African problems.”
He called for:
- Honest dialogue between governments
- Continental mediation frameworks
- A renewed commitment to peace and stability
- Stronger African leadership in resolving intra-African crises
Communication, Education, and Technology: The Practical Roadmap
The President insisted that Africa must not remain reactive but must build the practical tools of its sovereignty.
He outlined clear priorities:
1. Control of African Communication
“A continent that cannot control its narrative will always be misunderstood.”
He called for:
- African digital platforms
- Pan-African media alliances
- Strategic communication institutions
- Content creation supporting African culture and identity
2. Reform of Education Systems
“We must teach our children their history, their heroes, their identity.”
The goal: an African-centered curriculum that promotes innovation, science, unity, and pride.
3. Technological Transformation
Technology must be placed at the core of African development:
- AI and digital innovations
- Cybersecurity
- Blockchain and digital finance
- Industrialization
- Youth tech empowerment
- Development of local research centers
4. Resource Control and Added Value
Africa must stop exporting raw materials and import finished goods.
“We must exploit our resources ourselves and build industries that create wealth for our people.”
A New Pan-African Momentum
The conference badge, symbolizing the legacy of Pan-African resistance and unity, served as a reminder of the historic weight carried by this moment.
The President concluded with a powerful message:
“Reparations, unity, free movement, peace, dignity—these are not dreams. They are responsibilities. Africa will rise because Africans choose to rise.”
Mamadou Cheikh, Correspondant
