President John Dramani Mahama has described African countries as “each other’s keepers” and urged leaders across the continent to safeguard the dreams and aspirations of future generations.
He made the remarks at the Official Opening of the 2026 Judicial Year and the 20th Anniversary of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in Arusha, Tanzania, on 2 March.
President Mahama highlighted the progress made in strengthening justice systems across Africa and emphasised the shared responsibility of nations on the continent.
“As I said earlier, all the nations on the African continent are each other’s keepers. I truly believe this. I also believe that each of us is a keeper of the dreams and hopes our ancestors could not achieve. We pave the way for their dreams to be realised, if not by us, then by the generations succeeding us,” he said.
Reflecting on Ghana’s efforts to reinforce its judicial institutions, the President also 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 strengthening our judicial systems. As I stand and recollect my youth and my fear for my father through my recurring nightmares, I realise that I can put those fears to rest,” he said.
He noted that for the past two decades, the African Court has played a vital role in protecting the rights and dignity of African people beyond national borders.
“For the past 20 years, we have had a court that can protect the rights and dignity of African people beyond the borders of our individual nations,” he stated.
Addressing the historic city of Arusha — synonymous with human rights and the protection of African dignity — President Mahama stressed the urgency of collective action.
“While I am here in this historic city of Arusha, a city well known as the site where human rights are affirmed and the dignity of African people is protected, the time for Africa is now. Now is the time for us to meet the challenge of keeping the promises we have made to future generations, promises we have signed and pledged to uphold,” he said.
He further called for a deeper commitment to the Court to ensure its continued growth and global standing.
“Now is the time to deepen our commitment to the Court so that in 20 years, when we celebrate its 40th anniversary, it will stand as the leading international judicial body and a model for others. Now is the time for Africa to step into its greatness,” President Mahama added.
