Africans have been urged to turn their commitments into practical actions to improve lives and shape the continent's future. Speaking on behalf of President John Mahama at the Elevate Africa Annual Convening 2026 in Accra, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah challenged participants to identify initiatives they were prepared to finance, implement, and account for. This would ensure measurable development outcomes. The event brought together various stakeholders, including Heads of State, Ministers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and traditional leaders.
Mr. Debrah issued a challenge to all participants, asking them to identify one commitment they were prepared to finance, implement, and account for before they left Accra. The commitments could include investing in young African enterprises, removing barriers to regional trade, and expanding access to education and economic opportunities. He emphasized that the chosen commitment should be practical, measurable, and capable of improving lives. This would make the Accra meeting memorable for what was achieved, not just for what was discussed.
Mr. Debrah drew inspiration from his mother, who understood the importance of investing in the future despite having limited resources. He warned that future generations would judge the current generation by its actions and its ability to position Africa to benefit from global changes. This perspective was shared with the audience at the Elevate Africa Annual Convening 2026, which took place from October 28 to 29 in Accra.
Co-founder of Elevate Africa, His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, also addressed the gathering. He challenged African leaders to consider how they would be remembered for the opportunities inherited from previous generations. He emphasized that leadership required a commitment to creating lasting opportunities and preparing future generations to shape their own destinies.
His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III reflected on Ghana's independence in 1957, which demonstrated that a different future was possible and strengthened the aspirations of millions across Africa seeking freedom. He recalled that Ghana's first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, understood that the significance of independence extended beyond national borders. The progress of one African country was strengthened by its contribution to the development of others.
His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III stressed that Africa must move beyond dependence on natural resource extraction and focus on creating value through the ingenuity of its people. He acknowledged the contributions of entrepreneurs, innovators, and creatives across the continent but noted that access to opportunities remained unevenly distributed. Therefore, he called for greater investment in technology, education, healthcare, agriculture, and the creative industries.
The Elevate Africa Annual Convening 2026 provided a platform for various stakeholders to discuss and explore ways to drive development in Africa. The event concluded with a call to action for Africans to actualize their commitments and work towards creating a brighter future for the continent. By working together, Africans can create lasting opportunities and shape the future of the continent.
Key points
- Africans urged to turn commitments into practical actions for development
- Leadership required to create lasting opportunities and prepare future generations
- Africa must move beyond dependence on natural resource extraction
