Africa is building, innovating, and transforming – Mahama tells UK investors

President John Mahama has urged global investors to shift their attention beyond traditional markets and recognize Africa as the next major frontier for economic growth, highlighting the continent’s growing innovation, economic transformation, and investment potential.

Speaking at the 12th Africa Debate in London, President Mahama emphasized that Africa is no longer waiting for external solutions but is actively driving its own development through innovation, economic reforms, and enhanced regional cooperation.

“Africa is not waiting to be rescued. Africa is building. Africa is innovating and transforming. And Ghana is proud to be part of that transformation,” he stated.

According to the President, Africa’s rapidly expanding population, increasing urbanization, growing consumer market, and vast untapped productive capacity position the continent to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the global economy.

He noted that future global growth will increasingly be driven by emerging regions, with Africa standing out as one of the most promising destinations for investment and long-term economic expansion.

“The next phase of global growth will not be driven solely by mature economies. Emerging regions will increasingly shape it as population expands, urbanization grows, consumption rises, and untapped productive capacity is realized. And Africa represents that frontier,” he said.

President Mahama stressed that Africa’s ongoing transformation presents significant opportunities for investors seeking sustainable returns, new markets, and strategic partnerships.

Highlighting Ghana’s strategic position within the continent, he described the country as a dependable gateway for investment, manufacturing, finance, innovation, and regional trade.

“And Ghana stands ready to serve as one of the continent’s most reliable gateways for investment, manufacturing, finance, innovation, and regional trade expansion,” he said.

“The opportunities before us are real, and the time to engage is now.”

Addressing policymakers, investors, and business leaders at London’s historic Guildhall, President Mahama called for stronger collaboration between Africa and the international investment community.

He expressed optimism that the gathering would help reshape global perceptions of Africa by showcasing the continent’s economic potential and growing strategic importance.

“Guildhall has witnessed defining moments in global history. And I hope that this gathering here today will also be remembered as one of those moments,” he remarked.

The President further emphasized the need for future partnerships to be founded on mutual respect, shared prosperity, and equal opportunity rather than dependence.

“A moment where partnership was redefined, not through dependence, but through mutual respect and shared prosperity,” he added.

Drawing inspiration from Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, President Mahama said both Ghana and Africa are positioning themselves for a future defined by growth, innovation, and inclusive development.

“As our late President Kwame Nkrumah reminded us many years ago, the future belongs to those who prepare for it,” he said.

“Ghana is preparing. Africa is preparing. And together, through genuine partnership, we can build a more prosperous and more equitable global future.”