Africa must seize opportunities in changing global dynamics – Mahama

President John Mahama is calling on African nations to strategically reposition themselves to take advantage of shifting global power dynamics and trade tensions.

Speaking at the 2025 Kwahu Business Forum on Friday, April 19, the President emphasized the need for Africa to move beyond its traditional role as a trading hub and embrace industrialization, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

“Africa has too often been left behind during major global transformations—from the Cold War to the rise of globalization,” Mr. Mahama said. “But today, with trade wars and geopolitical realignments reshaping global production and supply chains, we have a fresh opportunity to claim our place.”

He highlighted ongoing tensions between economic superpowers as a chance for Africa to become more than just a market for foreign goods.

“The world is changing rapidly. New opportunities are emerging, and we must be ready to seize them,” he said. “Africa must break free from the mindset that we are only traders. We can be manufacturers, innovators, tech leaders, and agribusiness giants. We can be anything we want.”

Mr. Mahama stressed that global uncertainty presents a unique window for Africa to redefine its economic identity and play a more active role in shaping its future.

The Kwahu Business Forum brings together leaders from government, business, and civil society to explore bold ideas for economic growth, industrial transformation, and private sector development across Ghana and the continent.