Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has urged a return to the vision of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, as a blueprint for strengthening reforms within the African Union (AU).
He emphasised that Nkrumah’s pan-Africanist ideals remain crucial in addressing the structural challenges that hinder the AU’s effectiveness.
Speaking during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, January 31, Mr Ablakwa stressed that Africa’s long-term stability and development depends on bold institutional reforms.
He noted that “without a renewed commitment to unity and self-reliance, the continent would continue to struggle with economic dependency, security threats, and governance deficits.”
Mr Ablakwa further highlighted the importance of financial independence for Africa, urging a reduction in reliance on external donors.
To achieve this, he advocated for enhanced intra-African trade, improved industrialisation, and stronger regional security cooperation.
He noted that economic self-sufficiency would enable the AU to implement policies without undue foreign influence.
Mr Ablakwa also reaffirmed Ghana’s support for AU-led initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), headquartered in Accra.
He described AfCFTA as a critical instrument for promoting economic growth, increasing trade among African nations, and advancing industrialisation across the continent.
His comments come at a time when AU member states are engaged in discussions on governance and structural reforms.
