President John Dramani Mahama has called on African nations to act as “each other’s keepers,” urging leaders across the continent to protect the dreams and aspirations of future generations.
He made the remarks on 2 March in Arusha, Tanzania, at the Official Opening of the 2026 Judicial Year and the 20th Anniversary of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Highlighting progress in strengthening justice systems across Africa, President Mahama emphasised the shared responsibility of nations.
“All the nations on the African continent are each other’s keepers. I truly believe this,” he said. “We are also keepers of the dreams our ancestors could not achieve. We pave the way for their dreams to be realised—if not by us, then by the generations that follow.”
Reflecting on Ghana’s own efforts to reinforce judicial institutions, the President shared a personal perspective on the importance of justice and human rights.
“Justice systems in Africa have strengthened over the past decades. In Ghana, we are also strengthening ours,” he said. “As I recall my youth and the fears I held for my father, I realise I can now put those fears to rest.”
Marking two decades of the African Court’s work, President Mahama underscored its role in protecting the rights and dignity of African citizens across national borders.
“For the past 20 years, we have had a court that safeguards the rights and dignity of African people beyond the borders of our individual nations,” he said.
Addressing the historic city of Arusha—long associated with human rights and the protection of African dignity—he stressed the urgency of collective action.
“The time for Africa is now. We must meet the challenge of keeping the promises we have made to future generations, promises we have signed and pledged to uphold,” President Mahama said.
He further called on African states to deepen their commitment to the Court, ensuring its growth and global standing.
“Now is the time to strengthen our support so that in 20 years, when we celebrate the Court’s 40th anniversary, it stands as a leading international judicial body and a model for others. Now is the time for Africa to step into its greatness,” he added.