Former Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has once again urged African countries to work together to become self-sufficient instead of relying on foreign aid.

Speaking at the launch of former Nigerian President Ibrahim Babangida’s autobiography, Akufo-Addo stressed that African leaders should move away from depending on donors and instead focus on building strong partnerships and long-term economic plans.

“Too often, African nations look outside for solutions when the answers lie within our own borders,” he stated. “We must reject the notion that aid is the key to our development. No country has ever achieved lasting prosperity by depending on handouts.”

His remarks come amid rising concerns over Africa’s economic vulnerabilities, including inflation, debt burdens, and global supply chain disruptions. Most of these vulnerabilities occasioned in part by the COVID-19 pandemic, the economic hardships of African countries has been underlying.

The former ECOWAS Chair encouraged African countries to focus on trade and investment within the continent, saying that true development comes from working together and becoming self-sufficient.

He pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key opportunity to boost Africa’s economy and drive growth.

“If we are to move beyond our historical economic challenges, we must fully embrace the AfCFTA. Removing trade barriers and fostering economic integration will create the conditions necessary for sustainable growth,” he remarked.

Mr. Akufo-Addo also cautioned against the long-term consequences of relying on donor support, which often comes with strings attached.

“Foreign aid is not free—it comes with conditions that may not align with our long-term interests. We must prioritize investments in our people, industries, and agriculture to ensure true self-reliance,” he asserted.

Turning his attention to West Africa, Mr. Akufo-Addo called for stronger collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria as a model for regional economic growth.