“It Is To Your Own Disadvantage If You’re Skittish About Africa” – Mahama Tells The World

Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, has urged the global community not to hesitate in engaging with Africa, warning that those who remain cautious risk being left behind as other powers move in.

Speaking at the Africa Summit in a session broadcast by Citi Live, the President said Africa’s growing appeal to investors is already evident. “It’s to your own disadvantage if you’re skittish about Africa,” he stated. “Everybody is coming; the Chinese are here, the Indians are here.”

His remarks come at a time when competition for economic partnerships on the continent is intensifying. Major economies, including China and India, have steadily expanded their footprint across Africa through investments in infrastructure, trade, energy and technology.

President Mahama stressed that Ghana’s doors remain open to investors from every part of the world. He noted that the country welcomes partnerships with the European Union, the United States and Russia alike, signalling a posture of inclusiveness rather than alignment with any single bloc.

The President’s message reflects a broader push by African leaders to position the continent as a destination of opportunity rather than risk. With a youthful population, vast natural resources and an expanding consumer market under the African Continental Free Trade Area, proponents argue that Africa offers long-term returns that investors can hardly afford to ignore.

Beyond economic diplomacy, President Mahama also disclosed plans to attend the Russia-Africa Summit. He indicated that he intends to use the platform to appeal directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin for a ceasefire in the ongoing war in Ukraine, underscoring Ghana’s commitment to peace and dialogue in international affairs.

Observers say the dual message of open business and principled diplomacy highlights Ghana’s desire to be a credible and neutral partner on the world stage.

As global capital looks for new frontiers, President Mahama’s call is clear: Africa is open for business, and those who delay may find the best opportunities already taken. For investors weighing their options, the message from Accra is simple. The time to engage with Africa is now.

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