Ambassador Edward Boateng, a former Ghana Ambassador to China, has urged Africans studying abroad to use the knowledge and expertise from their training to help develop the continent.

Speaking at the African Business Dialogue at Georgetown University in the United States, Ambassador Boateng charged the students to adopt “a global mindset” and become active contributors to the democratic governance and socio-economic development in their home countries.

“You cannot sit in Washington D.C. and expect Ghana or Ethiopia to become like Washington D.C.,” he remarked.

“Real change requires a deep understanding of Africa’s local context and active engagement. You must be ready to get your hands in the game.”

He also encouraged the trainees to reject the negative narratives and stereotypes about Africa, as the continent had made significant strides in the past decades.

“Africa is a continent of possibilities and untapped opportunities…and if she is to reach her full potential, that will require the dynamism of its youth,” he explained.

“Now is your moment of opportunity…Seize it and play your part, no matter how big or small. Be part of the solution, and find ways to contribute to Africa’s progress instead of succumbing to pessimism.

“Africa will only improve when her children take an interest in the opportunities she has to offer,” he noted.

Amb. Boateng cited the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), as an initiative, which offered “an unparalleled platform for young people to harness their talents, innovate, and export their skills across Africa.”

He said AfCFTA, which aims to create a single market for goods and services across the continent, could succeed with the “energy and creativity of Africa’s youth.”

The diplomat also tasked the students to take up political and other leadership roles because Africa’s future “depends on skilled and ethical leaders.”

He mentioned nations like China, Singapore, South Korea, and Vietnam, where visionary leadership had driven economic growth and technological advancement, indicating that Africa could attain similar heights with “the right leadership.”

He highlighted local initiatives such as the “Beyond the Return”, which he suggested should focus on “attracting long-term investments and facilitating the relocation of African-American youth who seek to reconnect with their roots and contribute to Africa’s development.”

“Ghana is the ‘Mecca’ of African emancipation and independence, and we must treat it with the respect and seriousness it deserves,” he said.

The former State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) boss also advocated a model of development that “respects local traditions, while embracing modern innovation.”

“The momentum of change is now on Africa’s side…The continent’s future lies in the hands of its youth, particularly, those studying abroad who have the potential to become catalysts for transformation.”

“By embracing hard work, ethical values, good management, leadership, and integrating global insights with local realities, African students from the diaspora can play critical roles in shaping a brighter future for their countries.

“It won’t be easy, but the journey to transforming Africa starts with you. Now is your moment—become the catalysts for change,” Mr Boateng stated.