Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo has called on African leaders and institutions to rethink development strategies by maximising the continent’s own resources, warning that reliance on external aid is no longer sustainable.
Speaking at the Regal Influence Summit in Accra, organised by the KRIF Foundation, Madam Bampoe-Addo said Africa’s future prosperity depends on disciplined leadership, efficient resource use and the courage to reform outdated systems. Her address was delivered on her behalf by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Ms Shamima Muslim.
She noted that as global financial support and aid continue to decline, African countries must increasingly depend on internal strengths to create wealth and improve livelihoods.
According to her, inclusive political leadership, transparent economic systems and accountability were essential for building resilient nations where citizens and investors alike could thrive.
“Countries grow when power is shared, voices are heard and leaders are accountable to the people,” she said, adding that meaningful progress often requires abandoning old systems to create space for innovation and new ideas.
Madam Bampoe-Addo rejected the narrative of Africa as a poor continent, arguing that the real challenge lies in translating ideas and principles into consistent action.
“Africa is rich in land, people, culture, ideas and energy. What we must improve is how we use what we have,” she said, urging governments to move beyond exporting raw materials to owning and controlling value chains.
She referenced Ghana’s recent efforts, including fiscal discipline measures, support for cocoa farmers, and the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board, as steps aimed at stabilising the economy and improving incomes.
The Deputy Chief of Staff also encouraged policymakers and businesses to fully utilise opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a platform to boost intra-African trade and unlock cross-border economic growth.
She stressed the importance of investing in digital infrastructure, technology and innovation, noting that digital systems could reduce corruption and build trust, while supporting startups and regional value chains would create jobs and keep wealth within the continent.
Rev. Kennedy Okusun, Executive Chairman of KRIF Ghana Limited, described the summit as a platform designed to move leaders from rhetoric to responsibility, urging those with influence to focus on building lasting continental legacies.
Managing Director of the National Investment Bank, Dr Doliwura Awushi Abdul-Malik Seidu Zakaria, echoed the call for leadership rooted in humility and unity, saying influence must be used deliberately to drive national and continental development.
The summit, themed “Commanding Influence, Shaping Nations,” brought together government officials, policymakers, financial executives and business leaders to discuss issues including banking, investment, gender and development, Pan-Africanism and entrepreneurship.
