Munich, Germany – President John Dramani Mahama today participated in the Opening Townhall Meeting of the Munich Security Conference, engaging in discussions on the topic “Building or Burning Bridges: Economic and Development Cooperation Amid Multi-polarisation.” The event, held at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof, brought together global leaders, policymakers, and economic experts to deliberate on the shifting dynamics of international cooperation.
Advocating for African Self-Sufficiency Amid Aid Cuts
During his remarks, President Mahama emphasized the need for Africa to become more self-reliant, particularly in food production, as external aid sources become increasingly uncertain. He referenced the decision by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to reduce aid to the continent, warning that African nations must take proactive measures to secure their own future.
“We cannot continue to depend on aid indefinitely. The recent cuts in USAID support should be a wake-up call for Africa to strengthen its agricultural sector and food production systems. We have the land, the human resources, and the potential to achieve food security on our own terms,” Prez Mahama stated.
He underscored the importance of investment in mechanized farming, improved irrigation systems, and intra-African trade to ensure long-term sustainability in food supply.
Addressing Climate Change and Its Economic Impact
President Mahama also highlighted the growing threat of climate change, stressing that Africa is already experiencing severe consequences despite contributing minimally to global emissions. He called for urgent global action to support vulnerable nations while urging African governments to take adaptive measures.
“Climate change is not a distant threat—it is already affecting our agriculture, water supply, and overall economic stability. We need global cooperation to address this crisis, but we must also take responsibility for building climate-resilient economies,” he said.
Africa’s Role in a Multipolar World
Reflecting on the broader theme of the discussion, President Mahama expressed optimism about Africa’s place in a multipolar world, where power is increasingly distributed among multiple global players. He noted that with a young and rapidly growing population, Africa has the potential to be a key driver of global trade and innovation.
“Trade in Africa is growing exponentially. We have the human resources and the market size to be a major player in the global economy. The challenge is ensuring that African nations cooperate strategically to maximize our collective strength,” he explained.
He further called for stronger regional partnerships and policies that promote fair trade, industrialization, and economic integration under frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
President Mahama’s participation in the Munich Security Conference underscored his advocacy for Africa’s economic independence, climate resilience, and a more equitable global trade system. His remarks set the stage for further discussions on how nations can navigate the complexities of international cooperation in an increasingly fragmented world.
