Russia-Africa Sunmit: Mahama calls for end to aid dependency, urges equitable investment models

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Africa’s firm commitment to ending its longstanding dependency on foreign aid and raw material extraction, calling on global partners to embrace investment models that deliver equitable, long-term returns for all.

Speaking today at the 3rd Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow, Mahama said Africa’s current leadership was determined to eliminate administrative bottlenecks and transform historic goodwill into robust, sustainable commercial ties.

“Our goal as Africa’s current leaders is to eliminate administrative bottlenecks and transform historic goodwill into robust, sustainable commercial ties,” the President told delegates at the summit.

Describing Africa as “a continent of the future,” Mahama said immense opportunities abound for mutual investment between African and Russian enterprises, particularly in agriculture, agro-processing, healthcare, energy security and digital services.

To address persistent trade imbalances and create direct market access for African goods, the President called for the deployment of modernised trade settlement mechanisms, including the use of local currencies and integrated digital payments.

He also stressed the importance of better market information, predictable quality standards, resilient logistics and closer cooperation between the respective private sectors, saying these measures would make trade “far more balanced, reliable, and mutually rewarding.”

The summit, which brings together African heads of state and Russian officials, is expected to produce agreements on trade, investment and industrial cooperation. Mahama’s remarks come as African governments increasingly push for deals that move beyond the export of raw materials toward value-added production and stronger commercial partnerships.

He urged global partners to back investment models that deliver equitable and lasting returns, positioning Africa not as a recipient of aid but as a partner in sustainable, mutually beneficial trade.