President John Dramani Mahama has urged the international community to redefine its relationship with Africa, saying the continent is seeking meaningful investment partnerships rather than aid or sympathy as it pursues economic transformation and industrial growth.

Speaking at the 12th Africa Debate on Wednesday, June 3, President Mahama highlighted Africa’s vast economic potential and called for stronger collaboration that supports value addition, industrialisation, and sustainable development across the continent.

The President pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a major catalyst for economic integration, describing it as the largest free trade area in the world and a powerful platform for expanding intra-African trade, boosting industrial production, and accelerating economic growth.

According to him, Africa's progress is already underway, with many countries demonstrating resilience and maintaining growth despite global economic headwinds and geopolitical uncertainties.

President Mahama stressed that the continent must move beyond its traditional role as a supplier of raw materials and instead focus on building industries that create jobs, add value to natural resources, and strengthen local economies.

He further called for fairer global partnerships that recognise Africa’s growing importance in the world economy and support the continent’s ambitions for inclusive and sustainable development. The President maintained that Africa's future lies in industrialisation, innovation, and strategic investments that empower countries to fully harness their resources for the benefit of their people

“Even amid global uncertainty, Africa continues to demonstrate resilience and growth.
While many advanced economies struggle with stagnation, Africa remains one of the world’s fastest growing regions. But let me also state clearly, Africa does not seek sympathy.

“The future relationship between Africa and the world must be built on value addition, on industrialization, technology transfer, infrastructure investment, skills development and a shared prosperity. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, allow me to present Ghana as evidence that transformation is possible when leadership reform and national purpose converge,” he stated.