By Rebecca Ekpe
Nelson Mandela once said, ‘’I dream of an Africa that is at peace with oneself’’. This peace is not in isolation, but needs unity to be peaceful, it needs strength and commitment for members states to be peaceful.
What a joy to learn that Ghana is gearing up to take on the chairmanship of the African Union (AU) in 2027, with President John Dramani Mahama securing the endorsement of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as West Africa’s sole candidate for the position. This is inspiring indeed for citizens of Ghana.
Clearly, the mandate of the Africa Union places an onerous task on President John Dramani Mahama and his assigns as the African Union (AU) aims to promote peace, security, and development across the continent, focusing on good governance, democracy, and human rights.
Prospects:
Global Visibility: When Ghana takes over the chairmanship of the African Union, one of the most poignant gains is Global visibility. Infact, currently, Ghana’s highlife music and dance have already gained international recognition, with UNESCO inscribing them as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Diplomatic Influence: Securing the AU chairmanship would amplify Ghana’s voice on the continent, allowing it to shape key policy decisions and promote its interests.
Economic Benefits: The chairmanship could attract investments, boost tourism, and create opportunities for Ghana’s businesses and entrepreneurs.
Challenges:
Ghana has to brace-up with the question of resources, navigating the fiscal terrain to provide financial and logistical arrangements in hosting AU meetings and events.
Above all, navigating the competing interests is key. As Ghana may need to navigate complex regional and continental dynamics, balancing its own interests with those of other member states.
With all these happening against the backdrop of Security concerns. President Mahama has the task to face head-on these challenges, that includes, conflict, which are prevalent in some parts of Africa.
What AU Chairmanship Means for Ghana and Africa:
Leadership Role: Meanwhile, in all of this the Ghana’s Chairmanship at the AU chairmanship at the would mark a significant milestone in its diplomatic history, showcasing its leadership capabilities and commitment to African integration.
Regional Cooperation: The chairmanship would foster greater regional cooperation, promoting peace, security, and economic development in West Africa and beyond.
African Agenda: Furthermore, Ghana’s leadership would prioritize key issues, such as Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), these are priorities under the John Mahama Administration.
At an African Union Day in 2025, President Mahama in a speech tilted, ‘’Africa at the forefront: Mobilising African Investment and Financing for implementing Agenda 2063 called on African governments to commit to the agenda by mobilizing resources for the continental development agenda.
‘’Let us leverage our collective strengths, foster strategic partnerships, and champion innovative solutions to bridge the financing and investment gaps we face,’’ President Mahama stated.
He said, ‘’the Africa we aspire to—a continent that is integrated, prosperous, and peaceful is within our reach’’. ‘’By mobilizing our resources, reforming our financial systems, and investing in our people, we can turn the aspirations of Agenda 2063 into reality.’’
Overall, Ghana’s AU chairmanship presents a significant opportunity for the country to promote its interests, showcase its leadership, and contribute to African integration and development.
