• Highlights collaboration in education, health and business

By Okon Ekpenyong

The visit by former President of Ghana, John Mahama was a symbol of the strong ties between the city of Columbus and the country of Ghana. During his visit to Ohio, which is part of his US Tour, President John Mahama reaffirmed the importance of the partnership between Columbus and Accra, as well as his commitment to enhancing the relationship between Columbus and Ghana.

He also highlighted the state of Africa and potential for further collaboration in areas such as education, business, and health.

President Mahama met with various business leaders to discuss potential economic opportunities. Later on, President Mahama met with the Mayor of Columbus, Andrew Ginther, and visited the Center for African Studies and lectured in Hitchcock Hall Room 131, discussing the successes and challenges of post-Cold War African democracy. Through his visit, African and non-African students gained a better understanding of the current political state of the country. 

Mahama’s visit on Friday, October 27, 2023, was well-received, with a diverse audience of students and faculty. The lecture provided insight into the complex dynamics of African democracy and the various factors that have impacted its evolution over the past three decades.
Mahama’s visit helped to foster a greater appreciation of the cultural, social, and political issues of African countries and the importance of democratic values and principles.

Former Ghanaian President John Mahama was generally well-liked, and he accomplished several things during his tenure. He worked to promote good governance and the rule of law, and he championed the cause of women’s rights.

He also worked to reduce poverty and inequality and to improve access to healthcare and education. However, he was not able to fully address the country’s environmental challenges, and he was unable to improve the economy significantly.

In a recent interview with The New American Magazine, Alphy Tongor, a business executive and executive director of Liberians Living in Columbus, spoke about his experience listening to the lecture by former Ghanaian President John Mahama.

His Excellency John Mahama, former President of Ghana (2012 – 2017), addressed the pressing state of democracy in Africa against the backdrop of recent coup d’états in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Gabon. His address also touched upon his prospective initiatives for the 4th Republic of Ghana, should he secure the presidential position again. 

This event transpired as Mr. Mahama graced the inaugural session of the revitalized Department of African Studies at OSU. The audience comprised former cabinet ministers of Ghana, leaders of OSU International Studies, students, community members, and local leaders.

During his address, Mr. Mahama offered insights into the challenges and opportunities that African democracy confronts. Furthermore, he took the opportunity to assure Ghanaians that, if re-elected, his primary focus would be on economic development, building Ghanaian institutions, nurturing entrepreneurial skills, and establishing pathways for the country’s youth to acquire skills essential for the future.

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