President John Dramani Mahama has called on African nations to chart a new path toward resilient, inclusive, innovation-led economies, warning that continued dependence on natural resources risks leaving the continent behind in the global race for technological progress.
Speaking at the African Academy of Sciences Forum held at the Accra International Conference Centre on Thursday, July 3, 2025, President Mahama underscored the urgent need for African governments to prioritize investments in science, technology, and human capital.
“Almost every government today is grappling with how to build resilient, inclusive, innovation-led economies. Many African countries continue to depend heavily on natural resources, while others worldwide are investing in human capital and technology capabilities,” President Mahama said.
The forum was held under the theme “Unpacking the Pact for the Future: Imperatives for Advancing Scientific Cooperation with Africa.”
He pointed to Asia’s remarkable transformation as a model Africa can emulate, highlighting countries such as China, South Korea, and Singapore as examples of how deliberate policies anchored in science and technology can drive national development.
“We must learn from our Asian brothers and sisters. China, South Korea, and Singapore pursued strategic catch-up policies anchored in scientific research, educational reform, and technological adaptation. Today, they are among the world’s most innovative economies,” he stated.
President Mahama cited data showing that Asia alone accounts for nearly 70% of global patent filings, a testament to years of sustained investment and coherent policy direction.
“This was born not by accident but by deliberate investment and policy coherence. There is a lesson for Africa to learn there,” he stressed.
The President further emphasized that Africa’s young and dynamic population is a powerful asset that can be harnessed through quality education, research funding, and technology transfer.
He called for stronger partnerships between African governments, universities, research institutions, and private sector players, noting that collaboration is key to driving scientific breakthroughs and technological innovation across the continent.
The event brought together policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, and development partners to explore avenues for strengthening scientific cooperation and ensuring that Africa can benefit from global technological advancements.
