Story by, Paul Mensah Nsor
In a landmark address marking the 80th anniversary of the historic Manchester Pan African Congress, Ghana's President delivered a passionate plea for African unity, humanitarian solidarity, and global recognition of the continent's potential.
Speaking at a commemorative conference in Accra, the president highlighted Ghana's immediate humanitarian response to crisis-stricken Jamaica and Cuba, symbolizing the spirit of Pan African brotherhood. "Out of our Pan African spirit," he declared, "we decided to send food, medication, mattresses, and blankets" to support communities devastated by recent disasters.
The speech was more than a humanitarian appeal; it was a powerful retrospective and forward-looking manifesto. Referencing the 1945 Manchester Congress – a pivotal moment in Africa's liberation struggle – the president reminded listeners that the continent's fight has transformed from political independence to economic empowerment and technological sovereignty.
"Africa remains rich in natural resources but poor in global influence," he stated, challenging the current generation to continue the work of pioneers like Kwame Nkrumah, Jomo Kenyatta, and other independence-era leaders.
The president outlined ambitious plans for continental transformation, including the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, pushing for free movement of people across African borders, and creating a united front in global negotiations, particularly around climate justice.
Notably, the speech included a groundbreaking proposal for a "League of African Free Movement," where seven initial countries would remove visa requirements for citizens, signaling a radical approach to continental integration.
With more than 60% of Africa's population under 35, the president emphasized the importance of empowering youth through education, digital literacy, and innovation platforms. "The Africa of 2035 will be defined by the choices we make now," he proclaimed.
The address was both a historical reflection and a call to action, urging African leaders to combat corruption, protect human rights, and leverage the continent's vast potential. "Africans will determine Africa's destiny," he emphasized, "not by external forces, but by courage, creativity, and the unity of African people."
As the conference officially opened, the president's words hung in the air – a powerful reminder that the Pan African struggle continues, evolving from political liberation to economic transformation and global respect.
The story of Africa, he suggested, is still being written – and this generation holds the pen.
Speaking at the conference, the former president of Ghana John Agyekum Kufour, emphasized the remarkable journey of African liberation, tracing the efforts of pioneering leaders like Kwame Nkrumah, Jomo Kenyatta, and Obafemi Awolowo who fought against colonial oppression.
"The challenge is no longer to colonial powers," the speaker noted, "but to ourselves." He highlighted Africa's strategic advantages: a young, educated population, abundant natural resources, and a central global geographic position.
He introduced the Africa Public Interest Media Initiative, a grassroots project aimed at fostering continental unity by leveraging modern media technologies and promoting people-to-people interactions.
With Africa projected to represent a quarter of the world's population in the next two decades, the call for a "borderless continent" that facilitates trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange seems more urgent than ever.
The message is clear: African unity is not just a historical aspiration, but a practical necessity for the continent's future prosperity.
