Ex-Ghanaian President Seeks New Legal Framework To Tackle Africa’s Challenges
Former President of Ghana, John Mahama, has called for the establishment of a Pan-African legal framework that reflects the continent’s unique values and realities, aiming to address the myriad challenges Africa faces. Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) Annual General Conference in Lagos, Mahama emphasized the critical role that legal professionals must play in shaping this framework to support the continent’s development.
In his address titled “The Future of Africa Amid Rising Security, Economic, and Political Challenges,” Mahama stressed the importance of adapting legal education and practice to meet the demands of an integrated African market. He pointed out the need for expertise in international trade law, cross-border disputes, and comparative African law to be developed within the legal community.
Mahama also underscored the responsibility of lawyers in addressing structural challenges that hinder Africa’s progress. He urged legal professionals to actively participate in creating legal structures that will diversify and strengthen African economies. He highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key initiative that opens up new opportunities and responsibilities for the legal profession.
“The protocol on the free movement of persons is not just an economic necessity but a realization of the Pan-African dream,” Mahama stated. He called on legal practitioners to advocate for and implement mechanisms that facilitate the free movement of people and goods across borders while addressing legitimate security concerns.
He further urged the harmonization of immigration laws, the recognition of professional qualifications across African states, and the establishment of robust systems for mutual recognition of judgments and arbitral awards. These efforts, he argued, are essential for the successful implementation of AfCFTA and for ensuring that Africa remains competitive in the global market.
Mahama also addressed the recent political instability in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, where a wave of military coups and insurrections has exposed deep-seated issues of injustice, alienation, and marginalization. He noted that these events have disrupted regional stability and highlighted the limitations of current diplomatic and interventionist strategies.
Reflecting on Africa’s economic vulnerabilities, Mahama pointed out that the continent’s reliance on exporting commodities and importing essential goods has made it particularly susceptible to global market fluctuations. He emphasized that this structural weakness is not new, but has been exacerbated by recent global events, underscoring the need for urgent reform.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio echoed Mahama’s sentiments, calling for a new mindset among Nigerians to rebuild the country. He urged legal practitioners not to rest on their laurels but to move forward with determination and a collective resolve to bring about positive change in Africa.
“As we gather, let us remember that our strength lies not only in our numbers but also in our unity,” Akpabio said. “We are a formidable force for positive change in Africa, and we must reflect on our collective determination to rebuild our beloved nation.”
The NBA conference served as a platform for African leaders and legal professionals to discuss the continent’s future and the role of the legal community in shaping it.
