Former African Presidents Rally for Political Stability and Social Media Advocacy

Two Former African heads of state have emphasized the vital role of effective leadership and political stability in fostering brilliance and opportunities for the African populace.

At the African Heritage awards 2024 event in Lagos, they urged African leaders to think innovatively, tell their own stories, and leverage social media for positive change.

Former President of the Republic of Botswana, Lieutenant General, Seretse Khana Ian Khana highlighted how certain politicians perpetuate Africa’s problems by prioritizing personal gain over public welfare, leading to instability.

He called on Africa’s talented individuals to harness their stories to inspire positive change, leveraging social media to counteract negative stereotypes about the continent.

“We need leaders who are humble enough to understand that their role is simply to be of service to their people and we will continue to preach peace, stability and good governance on the continent, therefore, let me urge all of you to use your stories to inspire others and to ignite positive change. Social media has enabled many of us to be able to reach millions of people worldwide”.

In a panel discussion, on the theme: “Shaping Africa’s Path to Prosperity”, Former Ghanaian President, Mr. John Mahama, stressed the importance of visionary leadership and long-term planning for Africa’s prosperity.

He criticized intra-African visa restrictions, advocating for unity and cooperation to fuel the continent’s growth.

“We must believe in ourselves as Africans. We need to free African movement more than we are presently doing. In European Union, you don’t need visa to enter any of the countries in Europe. In Africa, we don’t need to get visa to go anywhere within the continent. We must move two times faster than we are doing presently. We must be self-reliant as a continent”.

Organizer of the African Heritage Awards, Mr. Moses Siasia, in his address of welcome, called for unity and the rejection of divisive politics, promoting inclusivity and solidarity among Africa’s diverse peoples.

“As leaders of Africa, we must embrace these realities and adapt our policies and institutions accordingly. We must invest in education and skills training to equip our people for the jobs of the future. We must promote innovation and entrepreneurship to unleash the creative potential of our youth.”

According to him, “We must pursue progress with a sense of urgency and purpose. The world is changing at an unprecedented pace, driven by technological advancements, economic globalisation, and shifting geopolitical dynamics”.

Notable Africans, including former Ghanaian President Mr. John Mahama and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and others were honored for their leadership, women’s advancement, empowerment, and advocacy for social justice and tourism.