Africa seeks investment, not sympathy – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has called for a fundamental shift in the way the world engages with Africa, emphasizing that the continent seeks investment-driven partnerships rather than sympathy as it works to unlock its economic potential and accelerate industrial growth.

Speaking at the 12th Africa Debate on Wednesday, June 3, President Mahama highlighted the growing importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a transformative platform capable of driving industrialisation, boosting intra-African trade, and creating new opportunities for economic development across the continent.

According to the President, Africa's growth story is already unfolding despite prevailing global economic challenges, with many countries on the continent continuing to record strong economic performance and resilience.

“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,” he said.

President Mahama stressed that Africa’s future should no longer be defined by its traditional role as a supplier of raw materials to developed economies. Instead, he argued that the continent must focus on value addition, industrialisation, and building competitive economies capable of creating jobs and generating prosperity for its growing population.

“But let me also state clearly, Africa does not seek sympathy,” he stated.

“The future relationship between Africa and the world must be built on value addition, industrialisation, technology transfer, infrastructure investment, skills development, and shared prosperity.”

The President noted that Africa possesses abundant natural resources, a youthful population, and expanding consumer markets, all of which position the continent as a major destination for investment and industrial development.

He said partnerships with global investors should be structured around mutual benefit, enabling African countries to process and add value to their resources while developing the skills, infrastructure, and industries needed to compete in the global economy.

President Mahama also presented Ghana as an example of how strategic leadership, reforms, and national commitment can drive economic transformation.

“Allow me to present Ghana as evidence that transformation is possible when leadership, reform, and national purpose converge,” he told participants at the event.

He reiterated Ghana’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that supports private sector growth, attracts investment, and promotes sustainable economic development.

The Africa Debate, one of the continent’s leading policy and investment forums, brings together political leaders, investors, business executives, and development partners to discuss Africa’s economic prospects and emerging opportunities.

President Mahama’s remarks align with broader efforts by African leaders to position the continent as a destination for investment, manufacturing, innovation, and value-added production rather than a source of raw material exports.

His call comes amid growing momentum behind the AfCFTA, which seeks to create the world’s largest free trade area by connecting more than 1.3 billion people across Africa and fostering greater economic integration among member states.