United Nations Special Representative Hannah Tetteh has urged African countries to strengthen cooperation and collective action. This call comes as rising global competition creates new vulnerabilities for smaller economies. Mrs. Tetteh warned that the weakening of multilateral institutions and the growing dominance of bilateral agreements could expose developing countries to greater economic and security risks.
Speaking at the 21st Kronti ne Akwamu Public Lecture, Mrs. Tetteh highlighted the theme “The changing global and multilateral-based order: Implications for Ghana and Africa’s strategic positioning.” She stated that the changing international environment requires Africa to rethink how it engages with global powers. Bilateral debt arrangements and infrastructure investments, she noted, increase dependence on sovereign creditors. This leaves weaker states with limited room to protect their interests.
This situation fits into a broader trend of shifting global dynamics. Ghana, like many African nations, has increasingly engaged in bilateral agreements for development financing and trade. The country’s economic stability and future growth depend on carefully managing these relationships. Mrs. Tetteh’s remarks underscore the need for a unified African front to negotiate more favorable terms. This approach would safeguard national interests in a complex global landscape.
Mrs. Tetteh emphasized that power in the modern world is increasingly shaped by a country’s ability to build and control technology, industrial systems, logistics networks, and security capabilities. She stated, “The room for manoeuvre that a state has depends to a large extent on the strength of its economy, its productive capacities, its capacity and resources to defend its interests, and the extent to which it has been able to build a level of resilience to internal and external shocks.” This perspective aligns with Ghana’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and enhance local industrial capacity.
The decline of multilateralism has resulted in a greater emphasis on bilateral partnerships. This creates a closer link between national security, economic development, and geopolitics. Mrs. Tetteh referenced comments by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Carney described the current global situation as a “rupture” in the world order. He warned that great power competition was increasingly shaping international relations. This shift means African nations must be more strategic in their alliances.
Such a reality risks creating a world where stronger states impose their interests. Weaker nations, Mrs. Tetteh explained, are pressured to accommodate them to avoid conflict. Africa must carefully consider how it builds alliances and shapes its interventions. This will determine its relevance in the emerging global system. The continent’s ability to present a united front will be crucial for its economic and political future. This includes leveraging regional bodies like the African Union for collective bargaining power.
The implications for Ghana and other African nations are significant. They must prioritize economic resilience and strategic alliances. This involves investing in local industries and technological capabilities. It also means fostering stronger regional integration. Decision-makers will need to balance the benefits of bilateral partnerships with the imperative of collective African strength. This approach will ensure long-term stability and protect against external pressures.