Ghana must use its upcoming chairmanship of the African Union (AU) to spearhead bold reforms that will advance continental integration. Ambassador D.K. Osei, President of the Ghana Council on Foreign Relations, made this call on July 29, 2026. He stated that Ghana's leadership role presents a rare opportunity to strengthen Africa's position in a fragmented global order.
Speaking at the 21st Kronti ne Akwamu Public Lecture, Ambassador Osei emphasized the need for African nations to make difficult political and economic sacrifices. These sacrifices are crucial if the continent aims to achieve deeper integration and remain competitive globally. He highlighted that some reforms under Agenda 2063 might involve ceding aspects of national sovereignty, particularly in security and foreign policy.
This call for bold action comes as Ghana prepares to assume the AU chairmanship next year. The country's leadership will be vital in shaping Africa's future and championing the reforms envisioned under Agenda 2063. This agenda outlines a strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of the continent over a 50-year period. The success of initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) depends on such commitment.
Ambassador Osei questioned whether African countries are truly prepared to deepen regional integration. He specifically mentioned strengthening the AfCFTA and considering ambitious initiatives like a continental currency. He remarked, "I'm not sure we are ready to do that," suggesting a reluctance among African nations to pursue the bold decisions necessary for meaningful integration. He pointed to Africa's recent actions on the international stage as evidence of this hesitation.
The Ambassador also voiced concerns about growing setbacks to multilateralism, which is cooperation among several countries. He noted inconsistencies in Africa's collective response to global geopolitical shifts. Using the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as an example, he questioned some of the bloc's recent leadership decisions. He argued these decisions might not adequately position the region to respond effectively to ongoing political and security challenges.
Furthermore, Ambassador Osei criticized a lack of strategic coordination in Africa's approach to the race for the next United Nations Secretary-General. He argued that presenting multiple African candidates weakens the continent's chances of securing the position. He believes Africa should have rallied behind a single candidate, aligning with the continent's long-standing rotational understanding within the UN system.
Despite these challenges, Ambassador Osei expressed hope for Africa's future. He believes this hope rests on the emergence of visionary leaders willing to challenge the status quo. He recalled a period when leaders like Ethiopia's late Meles Zenawi, South Africa's former President Thabo Mbeki, and Senegal's former President Abdoulaye Wade demonstrated such courage. These leaders pushed for transformative continental initiatives, including the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) and the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM).
He urged today's leaders to demonstrate similar resolve. "Fortunately, Ghana is about to take over the chairmanship of the African Union next year. My goodness, what an opportunity," he stated. He expressed optimism that discussions like the Kronti ne Akwamu Public Lecture can help shape Ghana's policy direction. This will ensure the country uses its leadership role to drive meaningful reforms across the continent. "Ghana has a huge task on its shoulders, and we should not waste this opportunity," Ambassador Osei stressed, highlighting the critical nature of the upcoming chairmanship.