Africa’s future lies in the hands of its youth - Edward Boateng

Former Ambassador to China, Edward Boateng, has delivered an inspiring message to African students studying abroad, highlighting their essential role in shaping the continent’s future.

Speaking at the Georgetown University African Business Dialogue in the United States, Amb. Boateng called on students to adopt a global perspective while staying deeply connected to the realities of their home countries. He urged them to actively contribute to Africa’s development.

“You cannot sit in Washington D.C. and expect Ghana or Ethiopia to become like Washington D.C.,” Amb. Boateng remarked. “Real change requires a deep understanding of Africa’s local context and active engagement. You must be ready to get your hands in the game,” he advised the students.

This message follows the growing need to reclaim Africa’s narrative and tell it from an African perspective. Amb. Boateng emphasized that the portrayal of Africa as a continent of lost dreams must be erased. “Africa is a continent of possibilities and untapped opportunities, and if she is to reach her peak, it will take the dynamism of the youth,” he asserted.

He urged African students to return home equipped with knowledge and global experiences to drive the progress needed, rather than waiting for change from a distance.

Amb. Boateng also encouraged students to rise above negative portrayals of Africa in Western media, particularly in the U.S., and to acknowledge the significant political and economic progress Africa has made over the past 25 to 30 years.

“Now is your moment of opportunity; seize it and play your part, no matter how big or small,” he told the students. “Be part of the solution and contribute to Africa’s progress instead of succumbing to pessimism. Africa will only improve when her children take interest in the opportunities she offers.”

He also highlighted the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to create a single market for goods and services. According to him, AfCFTA provides a great platform for the youth to harness, develop, and export their talents across the continent.

Amb. Boateng encouraged students to consider political roles, stressing the need for leaders with a conscience, skilled thinkers, diligent and efficient managers and implementers to guide sustainable development in Africa’s institutions, many of which suffer from poor and inexperienced management.

Drawing examples from Asia, he referenced countries like China, Singapore, South Korea, and Vietnam, where visionary leadership has driven impressive economic growth and technological advancement.

Focusing on Ghana, Amb. Boateng touched on the significance of the Year of Return and its continuation under “Beyond the Return.”

However, he expressed concern that the initiative has become more of a festive celebration rather than a platform for driving investments into Ghana and Africa as a whole.

He noted that “Beyond the Return” should focus on attracting investment and facilitating the relocation of African-American youth who seek economic and social ties with Africa. “Ghana is not just a party destination in December; it is the ‘Mecca’ of African emancipation and independence, and we must treat it as such,” he said.

He urged African students abroad to use their global experiences to enrich their home countries, advocating for development that honors local traditions while embracing modern innovation. Citing the success of returning Asian diasporas—many of whom studied in the U.S. and Europe — Amb. Boateng highlighted how they have transformed their countries by blending global experiences with local values.

“The momentum of change is now on Africa’s side,” Amb. Boateng declared. “The continent’s future lies in the hands of its youth, especially those studying abroad, who have the potential to become catalysts for transformation.”

He added, “By embracing hard work, ethical values, good management, leadership, and the integration of global insights with local realities, African students from the diaspora can play critical roles, and even lead the charge, in shaping a brighter future for their countries.”

Ambassador Boateng concluded by acknowledging that the path ahead may be challenging, but he urged African students abroad to become the catalysts for change in Africa’s future.

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