Africa must guard its right to set its own social and cultural norms - President Mahama

Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah delivering President John Dramani Mahama’s message to the 4th African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family Sovereignty and Values, has stated that Africa must guard its right to set its own social and cultural norms

Debrah told delegates that true sovereignty is economic as well as cultural. “Domestic production, support African enterprises, expand regional trade, and create pathways to prosperity that are anchored in our own priorities and realities,” he said. “Dependency in whatever form it appears ultimately weakens sovereignty.”

Turning to global cultural debates, the Chief of Staff stressed that Africa is open to dialogue but will not surrender its right to self-definition.

“Africa does not fear engagement with the world. We welcome dialogue, exchange and cooperation but engagement must never come at the expense of our right to redefine our own social and cultural norms,” Debrah said, speaking on behalf of President Mahama.

He noted that many Africans hold “deeply rooted beliefs regarding marriage, family formation, parenthood, and community life” shaped by “centuries of life-lived experience, cultural evolution, and spiritual convictions.”

“Our responsibility is not to dictate how others should live,” he added. “It is to ensure that our own laws, educational systems, and public institutions remain reflective of the values and aspirations of our societies.”

The conference in Accra has convened parliamentarians from across the continent to discuss family sovereignty, cultural preservation, and legislative independence.