Ghana President Nana Akufo-Addo’s Bold Address to President Macron: A Call for African Self-Reliance

In a powerful and thought-provoking address, Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo delivered a stunning critique of Africa's reliance on Western aid during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron. The speech, which has since resonated across the African continent and beyond, was a passionate call for Africa to break free from the shackles of dependency and take charge of its destiny. While the address was met with widespread support across Africa, it also sparked unease in France, where concerns about the implications of such a movement are beginning to surface.

A Fundamental Shift in Perspective

President Akufo-Addo began by challenging the very foundation of African policy-making, which has long been dependent on the support of Western countries like France and the European Union. He emphasized that this model has not worked and will not work in the future. "We can no longer continue to make policy for ourselves, in our country, in our region, in our continent, on the basis of whatever support the Western world or France or the European Union can give us," Akufo-Addo declared. His words were a call to African nations to develop their countries independently, free from the constraints of foreign aid.

This shift in perspective is crucial, especially for a country like Ghana, which, despite gaining independence over 60 years ago, still relies on foreign aid to finance essential sectors like health and education. Akufo-Addo's frustration was evident as he stated, "By now, we should be able to finance our basic needs ourselves." This sentiment reflects a growing desire among African leaders to build self-sufficient economies that do not rely on the generosity of European taxpayers.

Harnessing Africa's Vast Resources

A central theme of Akufo-Addo's speech was the immense wealth of resources that Africa possesses. The continent, which is home to at least 30% of the world's most important minerals, vast arable lands, and the youngest population of any region in the world, has the potential to become a global powerhouse. Yet, despite these advantages, Africa continues to lag behind in development.

Akufo-Addo pointed to the resilience and ingenuity of African youth, particularly those who risk their lives crossing the Sahara and the Mediterranean in search of better opportunities in Europe. He argued that these energies should be channelled into building Africa, not fleeing it. "We want to have those energies working inside our countries," he said, stressing the need to create systems that give young Africans hope and opportunities within their own nations.

Migration: A Historical Perspective

The Ghanaian president also tackled the issue of migration, presenting it as a historical phenomenon driven by the failure of home countries to provide opportunities for their citizens. He drew parallels between the current wave of African migration and the mass emigration from Ireland and Italy in the 19th century, when millions left Europe for the "American paradise" because their home countries were not working.

Today, young Italians and Irish remain in their respective countries because they have opportunities at home. Akufo-Addo expressed his desire for a similar future for Africa, where young Africans stay in Africa because they see a future there. This vision requires a significant shift away from dependency on foreign aid and towards building robust economies that can support their populations.

France’s Discomfort

While Akufo-Addo’s message was warmly received by many across Africa, it has caused unease in France. The country has long-standing ties with many African nations, particularly its former colonies, and has played a significant role in their development through aid and bilateral agreements. However, as African leaders like Akufo-Addo push for greater self-reliance, France's influence on the continent may wane, potentially disrupting these established relationships.

President Macron, who was present during Akufo-Addo’s address, seemed unsettled by the bold statements. France’s strategic interests in Africa are significant, and a more self-reliant Africa could challenge the status quo that has benefited France for decades. The growing movement towards African independence and self-sufficiency is thus seen as a potential threat to France's traditional role on the continent.

Building a Ghana Beyond Aid

Akufo-Addo's vision for a "Ghana Beyond Aid" encapsulates his broader message. He envisions a Ghana that is independent, self-sufficient, and capable of standing on its own. This vision is not anti-Western; rather, it is pro-African, emphasizing the need for African nations to focus on their development and governance.

He acknowledged the cooperation of France and other Western nations, but stressed that Africa's main responsibility is to itself. The goal is to create conditions that allow African countries to thrive independently, reducing the need for their citizens to seek opportunities elsewhere. This, Akufo-Addo believes, will lead to the "full flowering of the African peoples" and the realization of the "new African personality" that was envisioned at the time of independence.

Conclusion

President Nana Akufo-Addo’s address was a powerful reminder of Africa’s potential and a call to action for its leaders and citizens. His message was clear: Africa must move away from dependency and towards self-reliance, using its vast resources and youthful population to build prosperous, independent nations.

While this vision has inspired many across Africa, it has also caused concern in France, where the implications of a more self-sufficient Africa are still being grappled with. Supported by organisations like FITAfrica, the movement for African independence and self-sufficiency is gaining traction, signalling a shift in the continent's trajectory and challenging the dynamics of its relationships with Western powers, particularly France.