The President in Africa: A New Moment of Promise

Posted by Kol Peterson

Saturday, the Presidentg GAVE a speech in Accra, Ghana. In it, he laid out his vision for human rights and democracy in Africa’s future, and he described what America’s role in promoting better governance in Africa will be. The speech was entitled, "A New Moment of Promise."

(President Barack Obama addresses the Ghanaian Parliament in Accra, Ghana July 11, 2009.
Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy)

We made sure that speech would be as accessible to as many Africans as possible on the radio, TV, and by SMS. These are the speech excerpts that we sent out to thousands of SMS subscribers in Africa and around the world.

It is an honor for me to be in Accra & to speak to the representatives of the people of Ghana. I am proud that this is my first visit to sub-Saharan Africa as President of the US.

The 21st century will be shaped by what happens not just in Rome or Moscow or Washington, but by what happens in Accra as well.

I will focus on four areas that are critical to the future of Africa and the entire developing world: democracy; opportunity; health; and the peaceful resolution of conflict.

Governments that respect the will of their own people are more prosperous, more stable, and more successful than governments that do not.

With better governance, I have no doubt that Africa holds the promise of a broader base for prosperity.

People must make responsible choices that prevent the spread of disease… promoting public health in their communities and countries.

America will support these efforts through a comprehensive, global health strategy.

Africa’s diversity should be a source of strength, not a cause for division

We must stand up to inhumanity in our midst. It is never justifiable to target innocents in the name of ideology.

I am speaking to the young people. You have the power to hold your leaders accountable, and to build institutions that serve the people.

I can promise you this: America will be with you. As a partner. As a friend. Freedom is your inheritance. Now, it is your responsibility to build upon freedom’s foundation.