UNGA81: Ghana will push for stronger African voice under AU Chairmanship – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has outlined Ghana’s priorities ahead of the country’s assumption of the African Union (AU) Chairmanship in January 2027. Mahama announced the priorities while addressing the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

He said Ghana would use its AU leadership role to promote greater continental integration.

The President also identified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key priority.

He said Ghana would push for faster implementation of the agreement to strengthen trade and economic cooperation across Africa.

Peace and security will also feature prominently on Ghana’s agenda.

Mahama said Ghana would support efforts to promote peace in African countries affected by conflict.

He also said Ghana would work to strengthen Africa’s voice in global affairs.

“We will use our AU Chairmanship to champion continental integration, accelerate the implementation of the AfCFTA, push for peace and security in conflict zones, and ensure that Africa speaks on the global stage with one resolute, undivided, and confident voice,” he said.

Ghana’s upcoming AU role is closely linked to Mahama’s wider call for changes to global governance.

Earlier in his UN address, the President called for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council, including veto powers.

He argued that Africa’s population and role in the United Nations justify greater representation in global decision-making.

Mahama also placed strong emphasis on African economic cooperation.

He described the AfCFTA as an engine for intra-African trade, structural transformation and industrial growth.

The President also called for greater local processing of Africa’s natural resources.

He warned against repeating patterns of resource extraction associated with the colonial era. “Africa will not remain a passive arena for a new scramble for resources,” he said.

Mahama also stressed the importance of Africa’s critical minerals. “Critical mineral extraction must not replicate colonial-era exploitation,” he said.

He called on African countries to process their minerals locally and build industries around their natural resources.

“We will process our minerals at home, build local industries, create dignified jobs for our youth, and retain the value of our natural resources,” Mahama said.

The President also highlighted the need for stronger governance across Africa. “African leadership must be transparent and accountable,” he said.

He called for stronger action against corruption and urged leaders to ensure that public resources are used efficiently.

Ghana’s 2027 AU Chairmanship will therefore focus on several areas, including continental integration, trade, peace and security, resource value addition and stronger African representation in global affairs.

Mahama said Ghana would use the chairmanship to advance these priorities and promote a stronger and more united African voice on the world stage.