Nkrumah’s legacy must be measured by action, not ceremonies – Armah-Kofi Buah

Ghanaian Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has urged Africans and Ghanaians to move beyond mere ceremonies to celebrate the 117th anniversary of Kwame Nkrumah's birth, and instead translate his principles of self-determination, Pan-Africanism and self-reliance into tangible actions. Speaking at the NkrumahFest in Nkroful, Mr Buah emphasized that the anniversary should prompt reflection on whether Ghana and Africa are building the society envisioned by Nkrumah.

The commemoration serves four purposes: to remember Nkrumah's life and achievements, reflect on his vision, renew commitment to his ideals, and inspire future generations to carry those values forward. The minister stressed that Nkrumah's legacy should be measured through the concrete institutions and infrastructure he established, such as the Akosombo Dam, Tema Harbour, Adomi Bridge, universities, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, Bank of Ghana and State Housing Corporation.

He argued that Nkrumah's developmental projects were conceived for future generations, not for immediate political gain. Mr Buah urged young people to understand this distinction as they consider their responsibilities to Ghana and Africa. The theme for this year's celebration, "Nkrumah @117: Celebrating His Enduring Legacy – Africa Must Unite or Perish," highlighted Nkrumah's vision of a united Africa.

The minister noted that Nkrumah did not view Ghana's independence as an isolated achievement but as part of a broader struggle for African liberation and unity. He emphasized that Africa's challenges associated with fragmentation and limited continental integration underscore the need for renewed commitment to unity. The minister also called for a renewed focus on self-reliance, innovation, and the development of an Africa that produces and builds rather than relying excessively on external support.

He challenged Ghanaians to ensure that no citizen is left behind and that Africa is becoming a continent capable of determining its own future. The Minister highlighted environmental protection as a key aspect of honoring Nkrumah's legacy, urging Ghanaians to support government efforts against illegal mining and environmental degradation.

He stressed that preserving the country's natural resources was a responsibility to future generations.