President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama took part in the opening session of the Munich Security Conference today. The event, held at Hotel Bayerischer Hof, brought together world leaders and experts to discuss the theme: “Building or Burning Bridges: Economic and Development Cooperation Amid Multi-Polarization.”
President Mahama spoke about the need for Africa to depend less on foreign aid, especially for food production. He pointed out that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has reduced its aid to Africa, making it crucial for the continent to take charge of its own future.
“We cannot rely on aid forever. The USAID cuts should be a wake-up call for Africa to improve its agriculture and food production,” he said. He encouraged investment in modern farming, better irrigation, and trade between African nations to ensure food security.
Mahama also warned about the dangers of climate change, saying that Africa is already feeling the effects despite contributing very little to global emissions. He urged world leaders to support vulnerable nations while African governments take action to build stronger economies.
“Climate change is already hurting our agriculture, water supply, and economy. We need global support, but we must also take responsibility for creating climate-resilient economies,” he stated.
President Mahama highlighted Africa’s growing trade and economic potential, emphasizing the need for better cooperation among African nations. He called for stronger partnerships to promote fair trade, industrialization, and economic integration through agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
His speech at the Munich Security Conference reinforced his call for Africa’s economic independence, climate resilience, and fair global trade practices. His remarks set the stage for further discussions on how nations can work together in a divided world.