South African politician Julius Malema has emphasized the need for Africa to move beyond mere political freedom and strive for economic emancipation.

He made the call on his visit to Ghana on January 23, 2024.

Acknowledging Ghana's long-standing history of democracy on the continent, Malema pointed out the persistent challenge of economic control, which he believes remains in the hands of those who previously colonized the nation.

Known for his outspoken stance on economic justice and pan-African unity, Julius Malema underscored the significance of breaking free from economic dependencies that trace their roots to the colonial era.

"...political freedom without economic emancipation is meaningless," he asserted, challenging the prevailing status quo that has left many African nations grappling with economic structures established during the colonial period.

During his address, Malema highlighted the fact that Ghana's democracy stands as one of the oldest on the continent, yet economic power remains concentrated in the hands of entities with historical ties to colonial powers. This, he argued, hampers the true realization of independence and hinders the progress and prosperity of the African people.

"Ghana's democracy is very old compared to other democracies in the continent but the means of production are still owned by those who previously colonized us," Malema pointedly stated, urging African nations to reassess their economic frameworks and explore strategies for reclaiming control over their resources. The South African politician believes that economic autonomy is essential for the continent to achieve genuine sovereignty.

Malema's message resonates with the broader sentiment across Africa, where discussions about economic independence have gained prominence. Advocates have argued that a united front is crucial in breaking the chains of economic exploitation, with the belief that only through collaboration and solidarity can African nations truly prosper.

"The unity of Africa is a threat to the enemies of Africa," Malema emphasized, highlighting the importance of fostering a sense of unity among African nations. He stressed that a divided Africa only serves the interests of external powers, perpetuating a cycle of economic dependency.