Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has renewed calls for a borderless Africa, arguing that greater integration across the continent is essential to combating xenophobic attacks, promoting unity and advancing the long-term vision of African prosperity.
Speaking in a special interview on JoyNews' Newsfile programme on Saturday, the minister said Ghana remains committed to the ideals of African integration championed by the continent’s founding leaders.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, many of Africa’s current national boundaries were created during the colonial era and continue to divide communities that share common histories, cultures and identities.
He maintained that removing barriers to movement across the continent would strengthen ties among African peoples and help foster a stronger sense of shared identity.
The minister noted that the dream of a united Africa has long been central to the aspirations of African leaders, particularly Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah.
“When you look back, May 25, 1963, the visions that Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah aspired, he was expecting that by now we would have a borderless Africa, the common market, the single currency, one central bank and one standby force,” he said.
Concern Over Xenophobic Attacks
Mr. Ablakwa argued that deeper continental integration could help reduce hostility toward migrants and discourage xenophobic violence that has surfaced in some African countries in recent years.
He expressed disappointment that Africans continue to face attacks in other African nations despite decades of efforts aimed at fostering unity across the continent.
“It is really a shame that after all these decades of the African unity dream, we will have an African country target Africans,” he stated.
The comments come amid renewed discussions on migration, regional cooperation and the protection of African citizens living and working across the continent.
The Foreign Affairs Minister stressed that Africa’s future prosperity depends on stronger cooperation among member states and the removal of barriers that limit the free movement of people, goods and services.
He said the continent must continue working toward the goals of the African Union, including greater economic and political integration.
Mr. Ablakwa concluded that a more connected and united Africa would not only strengthen peace and solidarity but also unlock significant opportunities for trade, investment and sustainable development across the continent.
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