African Leaders Embrace Crisis as Opportunity at Marrakech Summit
Amid escalating global trade tensions, African heads of state, policymakers and key stakeholders converged over the weekend in the enchanting city of Marrakech, Morocco, united in their resolve to transform prevailing challenges into pathways for growth and development. The occasion—the third annual AfriHeritage Awards and Concert—blended vibrant celebration with candid conversations on Africa’s strategic response to shifting global dynamics. Could this moment, steeped in uncertainties, be Africa’s catalyst for sustainable growth and greater international independence?
At the heart of these pivotal discussions was Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the acclaimed Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Known for her forthrightness, she didn’t disappoint in her address, firmly highlighting the pressing realities African economies face in a turbulent trading atmosphere, exacerbated by the latest round of US tariff hikes targeting various exports originating from the continent.
She delivered a thought-provoking challenge to the room: “The United States has raised tariffs on African exports, albeit the steepest ones are temporarily halted. But consider this—traditional aid channels are dwindling, if not utterly exhausted. Isn’t this the perfect moment for Africa to harness its abundant renewable energy potential? By investing wisely today, industrialization can finally take center stage tomorrow.”
As applause filled the auditorium, she gracefully accepted the African Lifetime Achievement Award—a symbolic affirmation of her relentless dedication to economic justice and inclusive prosperity. Her closing sentiment echoed deeply: “Each crisis is a hidden opportunity. The time, dear friends, is now—for Africa to look within and mobilize its rich resources for a brighter tomorrow.”
These urgent remarks were aptly complemented by the inspiring reflections from Ghanaian Statesman and former President, John Dramani Mahama. Conveyed through Hon. Gomashie Abla Dzifa, Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mahama’s message was clear—African unity and youth engagement must sit at the core of continental advancement. Dzifa’s emotional tone resonated through the audience as she quoted Mahama, “Tonight’s gathering transcends mere awards—it represents the extraordinary resilience and courage of Africa. Let’s never forget the struggles and victories that define our shared history and the immeasurable potential lying within our youth.” Dzifa proudly announced, amid thunderous applause, that Ghana would be honoured to host the awards in 2026—a testament to their commitment to this vital platform.
The call to leverage Africa’s collective strength resonated strongly with Hon. Abba Yusuf, the Governor of Kano State, Nigeria, and recipient of the African Award for Good Governance. Visibly moved by the recognition, Governor Yusuf pledged unwavering commitment to addressing inequality in healthcare, education and social welfare, adding poignantly, “This profound recognition inspires me to continue fighting for those who feel unheard—the children, women, and elderly in our communities. Only when we lift the vulnerable can our continent truly rise.”
Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala, a seasoned stateswoman honoured for her unwavering integrity and dedication to public service, reminded attendees: “True leadership leaves lasting legacies—not empty titles. Let us remain humble, accountable, and consistently ask ourselves, what will history remember of us?” Her powerful words left many deep in thoughtful reflection.
Addressing the crowd passionately, Moses Siloko Siasia, Chairman of Heritage Times HT and Convener of the AfriHeritage Awards, issued a stirring call for Africa-driven storytelling. Sharing a moving anecdote drawn from the wisdom of Nelson Mandela, he cautioned guests: “Mandela wisely taught that history belongs to the ones who write it. We have waited too long for others to acknowledge our excellence. Shouldn’t Africans define their own heroes and heroines, recognizing those who’ve been tirelessly championing our continent’s cause?”
Mr. Siasia emphasized the authenticity and integrity underpinning the AfriHeritage brand, highlighting how it grew from humble beginnings to wide continental recognition. Today, Heritage Times HT boasts over two million daily visitors and prints 250,000 magazine copies annually, distributed across Africa and beyond—a true testament to the credibility and quality of its message. With heartfelt conviction, he challenged guests to believe fervently in Africa’s boundless natural gifts: “Everything the world needs, Africa already possesses—it is our moment to showcase its true value.”
Throughout the evening, a distinguished list of awardees illustrated Africa’s diverse strengths. From Dr Samuel Ogbuku of Nigeria’s Niger Delta Development Commission, to Prof. Adesoji Adelaja connecting Africa from the scholarly halls of Michigan State University, to Engr. Akinwunmi Akinfemiwa steering sustainable energy leadership at Geregu Power Plc—each honoree represented ingenuity, dedication, and impactful leadership.
Similarly, corporate stakeholders such as Standard Bank South Africa, Nigeria’s Bank of Industry, and Morocco’s Hassan II University of Casablanca were saluted, all crucial institutions diligently working behind Africa’s broadening horizons. These recognitions emphasized collaboration between public and private entities as key to unlocking Africa’s enormous growth potential.
As the vibrant evening slowly concluded under the starry Marrakech sky, optimism clearly mingled with seriousness. The painful imperfections—the tariffs, trade inequalities, poverty gaps—weren’t glossed over. Yet, the prevailing sentiment was undoubtedly hopeful. Stakeholders departed with renewed determination to transform barriers into stepping stones, sharing quiet conversations, strategizing plans, and promising joint initiatives.
Hours later, long after prestigious medals and trophies had left the stage, an enduring takeaway lingered. This was more than a night of mere celebration and recognition—it was an evening where Africa’s collective dreams received a powerful voice, reminding everyone present of the continent’s infinite possibilities, ingenuity, and dignity.
And perhaps, this is exactly the conversation Africa needs: honest, challenging, but ultimately optimistic vindications—stories narrated from within its own borders, written proudly by its own people.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
