The Vice President of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has called for a united Ghana and Africa to achieve true self-reliance and sustainable development. Speaking at the Jubilee House in Accra on March 17, during an engagement with a delegation of Masters students from Harvard University, she highlighted the continent’s untapped potential and its indispensable contributions to global development, which she believes are often undervalued.
“Despite the significant resources and talents that Africa exports to the rest of the world, there remains a glaring lack of appreciation for these contributions,” she remarked. Citing a recent decision by a Western leader to reduce foreign aid, the Vice President questioned the imbalance in global economic relations. “How much wealth leaves our continent to benefit his country? That’s a question they rarely ask themselves. Aid is not charity—it is an outcome of a deeply interlinked global economy, where Africa plays a critical role. It’s time for us to come together, build bridges, and unite the African family to tackle these challenges collectively,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stated.
Building Bridges for Progress
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that fostering unity across African nations is critical to addressing systemic inequalities. She encouraged greater collaboration and outreach within the continent, stating, “If we fail to reach out and unite, the problems we face will persist. Our strength lies in our ability to stand together and chart a new course for our future.”
Women in Leadership
The Vice President also addressed the challenges faced by women in political and leadership roles, attributing some of these obstacles to historical limitations on women’s access to education. She urged women to challenge stereotypes and embrace their capabilities.
“As we progress, it’s troubling to see fewer women in leadership roles at higher levels. This is why the achievements of women often make headlines, as if they are exceptions. For example, when I became the first female Vice-Chancellor, it was treated as groundbreaking news. It shouldn’t be so. Women should be recognized for their competence and contributions, just like anyone else,” she asserted.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang encouraged society to draw inspiration from the resilience and strength of women in all spheres. “Powerful women exist everywhere, not just in prominent positions. Their examples and experiences should inspire us to support one another. Being a woman should not be a limitation but a source of strength.”
Dialogue with Harvard Students
The discussions with the Harvard delegation covered various topics, including Ghana’s democratic governance, the government’s development priorities, women’s representation in politics, and the country’s role as a model for African development.
The Vice President’s remarks underscored the importance of harnessing Africa’s collective strength, building inclusive leadership, and redefining the continent’s role on the global stage. By doing so, she believes Africa can assert itself as a self-reliant and globally respected partner in development.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
