President John Dramani Mahama has raised concern over Africa’s escalating youth unemployment and vulnerable health systems, characterising the continent’s struggles as a “pandemic of unfulfilled potential” that requires urgent action from its leaders. Speaking before the Zambian Parliament on Thursday, February 5, he underscored the alarming levels of youth joblessness in Ghana and across Africa, and called on governments to create sustainable opportunities that empower young people and drive economic growth.
He stressed that unemployment among the youth is not just an economic issue, but a security and social concern, as it leaves millions vulnerable to crime, unrest, and lost potential. Touching on healthcare, President Mahama termed Africa’s health systems as fragile, warning that the continent remains vulnerable amid global shifts in aid, defence spending, and international priorities.
“We must confront the battle for the economic emancipation of our countries at a time when global geopolitics is undergoing tectonic shifts. Today, global humanitarian assistance is shrinking, official development assistance is declining, defence spending is rising, and traditional multilateral systems are under strain,” he said.
Ghana’s President called on African leaders to confront these pressing challenges with honesty and pragmatism, stressing that the path to unlocking the continent’s potential lies in building robust economies, strengthening health systems, and creating opportunities for its youth.
“Africa is grappling with a different kind of pandemic—the pandemic of unfulfilled potential. Millions of young people remain without jobs; our health systems are fragile; and our economies continue to extract wealth without developing capacity. This reality must be addressed with urgency and resolve,” President Mahama stated.
Source: Patricia Boakye
