Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa criticized Western nations for prioritizing military funding over development, claiming $380 billion spent on the Ukraine war could address Africa’s infrastructure needs. He noted a breakdown of trust between African nations and the West, while advocating for stronger African leadership to combat external threats and exploitation of the continent’s resources.
On March 18, Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa condemned Western nations for prioritizing military funding over development efforts. Speaking during the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, he asserted that this shift in focus undermines the goals established by the G20. Ablakwa pointed out that a staggering $380 billion has been allocated to the Ukraine conflict over three years, funds that he argued could address Africa’s pressing infrastructure needs.
Additionally, Ablakwa criticized the substantial financial resources being diverted away from international development for war efforts, emphasizing that the G20 was established to foster industrialization, economic wealth, and trade opportunities. He lamented the current trends as contributing to a significant “breakdown of trust” between African nations and Western powers, including the United States and the United Nations, citing the misuse of vetoes in global governance.
Ablakwa advocated for an enhanced leadership role for African countries, noting a “vacuum in leadership” amidst the global landscape. He reflected on the historical advocacy of non-alignment by nations such as South Africa and India since the Cold War, asserting that unity is essential as there are “no winners” in ongoing conflicts.
The foreign minister addressed the growing external threats to Africa, alleging that certain external actors exploit divisions within the continent through divide-and-rule tactics. He highlighted the persistent pattern of interference concerning Africa’s valuable resources, such as uranium, gold, diamonds, and timber.
In response to queries about these external threatening entities, Ablakwa suggested a clear understanding of their identities, referencing a long history of exploitation from slavery to colonialism, which has positioned Africa at a disadvantage. He expressed concern over the actions of “neo-colonial actors” who seek to fragment African unity to better exploit the continent’s rich resources.
In conclusion, Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa sharply criticized Western nations for their focus on military funding at the expense of development initiatives. He underscored the need for African leadership and unity to counteract external threats that exploit the continent’s resources. Ablakwa’s remarks highlight an urgent call for a reassessment of global priorities and collaboration for the betterment of Africa.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
