Asantehene Rallies Leaders to Prioritise Intra-Continental Trade and Unity
At KNUST’s 58th Special Congregation, Otumfuo Warns Against Overreliance on the West Amid Shifting Global Powers
Edem Latsu Nukafu eljourno 
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has issued a clarion call to African leaders to champion intra-African trade, cooperation, and innovation, urging the continent to take its destiny into its own hands.
Speaking at the 58th Special Congregation of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the revered monarch warned that Africa risks being left behind if it continues to depend on the so-called developed world in an era of evolving global power dynamics.
“With the global race for superpower dominance intensifying, Africa must wake up. We have the resources and the human capital. What we lack is the motivation and political will to harness it,” Otumfuo stated.
He called for deeper South-South cooperation and stronger economic ties between African countries, emphasizing that Africa’s prosperity lies in its own hands. “We must prioritize business among ourselves. If we don’t act now, we will stagnate,” he added.
The Asantehene highlighted the transformative potential of African universities, noting their ability to produce skilled graduates capable of driving development. “Our graduates can do anything. We must empower our engineers and academics to produce what we consume. The knowledge is here—we just need to act,” he charged.
In a passionate plea to government officials present, Otumfuo urged swift action on the long-delayed KNUST Teaching Hospital, stressing its critical role in strengthening medical training and healthcare infrastructure.
“This hospital is dear to me. It’s essential for training our future medical professionals. Madam Vice President, please tell the President this must be completed without delay,” he appealed.
The King’s address was both a call to continental solidarity and a bold reminder that Africa’s development depends on Africans themselves.
