National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has called for a reset in Africa’s position within the global economic system, insisting that the continent must move from being a supplier of raw materials to a full and equal partner in global development.
Speaking on the growing global competition for critical minerals, energy resources, digital infrastructure and emerging markets, he said the world is entering a new phase of economic rivalry that presents both opportunities and risks for Africa.
He noted that while there is nothing unusual about countries pursuing their own strategic interests, the key question is whether Africa will actively shape its role or remain a passive source of inputs for more developed economies.
“The world is entering a period of renewed competition for resources, influence and strategic advantage,” he said. “There is nothing inherently wrong with this. Every nation pursues its interests. The question is whether Africa will participate in this new phase of global competition as an equal partner or merely as a source of inputs for the ambitions of others.”
Asiedu Nketia warned against a repeat of historical patterns in which African countries export raw materials while leaving the bulk of value addition and industrial gains to external partners.
He said the continent risks being left behind if it fails to build strong institutions and invest in knowledge-driven sectors, especially as the global economy shifts toward artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, biotechnology and clean energy.
“The challenge before Africa is to ensure that the 21st century does not become another chapter in which the continent supplies strategic resources while others capture the greater share of the value they create,” he stated.
According to him, Africa already possesses significant resources needed for future global industries, but its progress will depend on internal decisions, particularly in governance, education and long-term economic planning.
He stressed that meaningful transformation cannot be achieved through rhetoric alone, but through deliberate investment in industrial capacity, technological development and regional integration.
“The struggle against neocolonialism cannot ultimately be won through rhetoric alone,” he said. “It will be won through competent governance, industrial capacity, technological capability, effective regional integration and the ability of states to negotiate from positions of confidence rather than dependency.”
He further urged African governments to focus on building value chains around their natural resources and strengthening institutions that can support sustainable development.
Reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to international cooperation, he said partnerships should be based on mutual respect rather than dependency or unequal advantage.
He added that a more balanced international order would not only benefit Africa but also strengthen global stability and fairness in development outcomes.
