July 11, 2009

During his first visit to sub-Saharan Africa since becoming U.S. President, Barack Obama addressed the Ghanaian parliament in Accra on July 11. In a speech entitled “A New Moment of Promise in Africa,” Obama focused on four key areas critical to the future of Africa and the entire developing world: democracy, opportunity, health, and the peaceful resolution of conflict. In particular, he noted that “Governments that respect the will of their own people are more prosperous, more stable, and more successful than governments that do not.” He added, “With better governance, I have no doubt that Africa holds the promise of a broader base for prosperity.” The President also maintained that Africa’s diversity should be a source of strength, not a cause for division. Reaching out to Africa’s youth, which comprise the majority of the populations of many sub-Saharan countries, he said: “I am speaking to the young people. You have the power to hold your leaders accountable, and to build institutions that serve the people.”

Read the full text of the President’s address to the Ghanaian Parliament