By: Isaac Kwabena Boadu Date: 26th September, 2025
In a powerful display of unity and determination, African leaders gathered at the 80th United Nations General Assembly to call for significant reforms and greater representation for the continent. Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama delivered a bold and unapologetic speech, urging the UN to embark on a “reset agenda” to reflect the current global landscape. With nearly four-fold increase in UN member states since its founding, President Mahama emphasized the need for Africa to be inclusive in global decision making.
President Mahama’s speech highlighted pressing global issues, including the conflict in Sudan, describing it as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis together with the ongoing violence in Gaza. Pres. Mahama demanded a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for Africa, with veto power, questioning why this hasn’t been achieved yet. “The future is African,” Mahama asserted, calling for African representation on the United Nations Security Council.
Kenyan President William Ruto also delivered a powerful speech, calling for urgent reforms to the UN system to tackle global crises like climate change, inequality, and debt burdens in developing nations. He described the current UN Security Council as “dysfunctional, undemocratic, and unaccountable” and demanded sweeping reforms to the global financial system.
Meanwhile, Botswana’s President Duma Boko participated in a high-level meeting on youth participation in policymaking, highlighting the need for enhanced cooperation in technology, capacity building, and financing to empower youth in countries like Botswana.
The speeches by the African leaders marked a significant moment in the 80th UN General Assembly, with many delegates applauding their bold and unapologetic addresses.
AFRICAN VOICES INTERNATIONAL, FREEDOM IN AFRICA
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