Addressing the World Economic Forum in Davos, President John Dramani Mahama declared that the post-World War II multilateral governance system is breaking down and called for a fundamental shift in how Africa engages with the rest of the world. Highlighting the “Accra Reset Initiative” originally introduced at the United Nations General Assembly, the President positioned the framework as a practical response to a changing global order where bilateral relations have become increasingly transactional and unilateral.
President Mahama argued that Africa must move away from a history of reliance on humanitarian handouts and instead move toward a model of co-designing international programs. He emphasized that the Accra Reset is intended to build a new architecture for cooperation, allowing Global South nations to shape investments around their own national priorities rather than simply receiving pre-packaged solutions from the Global North.
Reflecting on his first year back in office, the President pointed to domestic reforms in Ghana as evidence that accountable leadership can yield tangible results. He noted that his administration has reduced the size of government to a record low of 58 ministers and deputy ministers, asserting that execution must take precedence over excuses.
President Mahama concluded his address by stating that the future of the continent will not be granted by default but must be negotiated and built through unity and preparation.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
