Local Government expert Isaac Amon Kotei has urged African countries to take collective action to secure a stronger voice in global affairs. Speaking on Ahotor FM's morning show in Accra-Tema on Friday, September 25, 2026, he emphasized that Africa's involvement in international affairs should not be measured simply by the presence of African leaders at global meetings. Instead, he argued that the continent's influence should be gauged by its ability to shape decisions and advance its interests.
Mr. Amon Kotei's comments come as African countries continue to push for reforms within global institutions. He cited President John Dramani Mahama's September 2025 address to the 80th United Nations General Assembly, where the President called for reforms to the United Nations and greater African representation on the Security Council. The UN has ongoing intergovernmental negotiations on reform of the Council, including questions of equitable representation and an increase in membership.
The issue of African representation is particularly significant given the historical context of the United Nations. Mr. Amon Kotei noted that only four African countries – Egypt, Ethiopia, Liberia, and South Africa – were among the 51 states involved in the founding of the United Nations in 1945. President Mahama also highlighted this historical context during his 2025 General Assembly address, emphasizing the need for reforms that address the imbalances in international institutions.
Mr. Amon Kotei stressed that African countries must develop a common approach to major international issues to secure a stronger voice in global affairs. He argued that acting individually could limit the continent's bargaining power, while collective action could provide African countries with a stronger platform to advance common interests. This, he believes, would enable Africa to leverage its significant human resources, natural resources, and economic potential.
Ghana, in particular, has a responsibility to contribute to the Pan-African agenda, given its historical role in the struggle for African independence and unity. Mr. Amon Kotei said Ghana's participation in international forums should extend beyond national interests to include issues that advance the wider interests of the African continent. He emphasized that Ghana can use its diplomatic engagements to strengthen cooperation with other countries and promote initiatives that create opportunities for its citizens and other Africans.
Mr. Amon Kotei also stressed that international diplomacy must ultimately connect with the everyday needs of citizens, particularly through economic opportunities, investment, infrastructure, and stronger international partnerships. He urged African governments to ensure that international engagements focus on practical issues such as investment, infrastructure, employment, economic development, and opportunities for young people. This, he believes, would help to strengthen the continent's collective voice and ensure that Africa receives greater recognition in global affairs.
The call for a stronger African voice in global affairs comes amid continuing UN discussions on Security Council reform. African states are advocating for greater representation and the continent's permanent inclusion in the Council. Mr. Amon Kotei concluded by emphasizing that Africa must make its voice heard and continue to demand the respect and recognition that the continent deserves.
Key points
- African countries must develop a common approach to major international issues to secure a stronger voice in global affairs.
- Ghana has a particular responsibility to contribute to the Pan-African agenda given its historical role in the struggle for African independence and unity.
- International diplomacy must ultimately connect with the everyday needs of citizens, particularly through economic opportunities, investment, infrastructure, and stronger international partnerships.
