In a night filled with reverence and international camaraderie, Ghana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo stood tall as he received the highly coveted 2024 Atlantic Council Global Citizen Award.
The event, held at the prestigious Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City, on Monday, 23rd September 2024, honoured the Ghanaian leader alongside an array of distinguished global figures, including Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Korean media pioneer Miky Lee. Each of these trailblazers was recognized for their outstanding contributions to global peace, democracy, and human development.
In his acceptance speech, President Akufo-Addo emphasized that the award is not solely his achievement but belongs to the resilient people of Ghana. “This moment is not just about me—it’s about the people of Ghana, who inspire me with their resilience, strength, and unwavering belief in a brighter future,” the President stated, underscoring the depth of his connection to his nation and its citizens.
He added that the people of Ghana, whom he called “true global citizens,” remain the backbone of his leadership. Their sacrifices, optimism, and determination, he said, continue to push the country forward, even amid challenges such as economic headwinds, political uncertainties, and global health crises.
The President was introduced at the ceremony by his friend and fellow African leader, President William Ruto of Kenya. Akufo-Addo used the moment to celebrate a new wave of African leadership, signaling a positive future for the continent. “He represents the new generation of African leadership that holds such promise for our continent,” Akufo-Addo said, acknowledging the significance of their shared mission to elevate Africa on the global stage.
Reflecting on his presidency, Akufo-Addo emphasized that the award highlights not only his leadership but also Ghana’s role in the global community. He remarked on the necessity of international collaboration, stressing that no country can tackle the world's pressing issues alone. "In today’s interconnected world, no nation can stand alone. Our future, as Ghanaians, as Africans, and as members of a global family, depends on our ability to work together and lift each other up,” he noted.
Throughout his presidency, Akufo-Addo has placed a high premium on collaboration, both within Africa and with international allies. He pointed to progress made in Ghana, including strengthening democratic institutions and expanding opportunities for the citizenry. Yet, he acknowledged that these milestones could not have been achieved without the collective efforts of the Ghanaian people and global partners.
President Akufo-Addo also took the opportunity to celebrate the strong relationship between Ghana and the United States. He described the partnership as one rooted in mutual respect and shared values, with a strong commitment to democratic principles. The Ghana-U.S. relationship, he said, has played a significant role in promoting human rights and the rule of law across the African continent.
While grateful for the recognition, Akufo-Addo framed the award as a call to action rather than a culmination of his efforts. He urged the international community to remain steadfast in confronting global challenges such as climate change, political instability, and inequality. "The challenges we face—whether it is climate change, political instability, or widening inequality—are global in nature, and they require global solutions," he remarked, reminding the audience that there is still much work to be done.
As terrorism and violent extremism threaten West Africa, President Akufo-Addo used the platform to call for unity in combatting these threats. He described the growing menace of extremism as one that could "submerge West Africa and, indeed, the rest of the world, in darkness and tyranny." His message was clear: peace, security, and prosperity can only be achieved through collective effort and steadfast resolve.
Nearing the end of his tenure as President of Ghana, Akufo-Addo reflected on the values that have shaped his leadership. He reaffirmed his unwavering belief in democracy, justice, and global citizenship—principles he will continue to champion even after leaving office. "I will continue to advocate for these values because they are the key to a future where every person has the chance to thrive, regardless of where they are born," he said.
In a poignant conclusion, he invoked the words of 17th-century English poet John Donne, who famously said, “No man is an island, Entire of itself; Every man is a piece of the continent, A part of the main.” For Akufo-Addo, this sentiment encapsulates the essence of global citizenship and the importance of interconnectedness in addressing the world's most pressing challenges.
The Atlantic Council’s Global Citizen Award is presented annually to individuals who demonstrate visionary leadership, commitment to strengthening alliances, and dedication to building a better world. President Akufo-Addo’s receipt of the award underscores his influence not only within Ghana and Africa but on the global stage as a champion for democracy, human rights, and international cooperation.
As he accepted the award, Akufo-Addo once again made it clear that his commitment to these values remains steadfast. “This recognition reminds me that, as President of Ghana, my leadership has been deeply shaped by the principles of unity, democracy, and a shared global responsibility,” he said.
With his tenure drawing to a close, President Akufo-Addo leaves behind a legacy of democratic leadership and international partnership, qualities that will undoubtedly shape Ghana’s path forward for years to come.
