Accra: Mr. Joshua Ansah, the Secretary-General of the Ghana Trades Union Congress (TUC), has reaffirmed the union's commitment to Pan-Africanism and to ensuring decent work for all Africans, emphasizing the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in uplifting workers and communities across the continent.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ansah expressed these sentiments during his remarks at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra during the 80th Anniversary Celebration of the Manchester Declaration, known as the Fifth Pan-African Congress. He emphasized the TUC's vision for a future where Africa is defined by justice, innovation, and shared prosperity, rather than struggle. Mr. Ansah stressed the importance of translating the Pan-African vision into policies that prioritize working people in Africa's development agenda.
The Fifth Pan-African Congress, historically held in Manchester, UK, in October 1945, was chaired by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who later became the leader of Ghana. Mr. Ansah quoted Dr. Nkrumah, stating, "The independence of Ghana is meaningless unless it is linked with the total liberation of our African continent." He reiterated the ongoing pursuit of this vision.
Mr. Ansah highlighted the diverse group of individuals who gathered 80 years ago in Manchester, including workers, intellectuals, trade unionists, freedom fighters, and young people, all united by the conviction that Africa's liberation and dignity should not be compromised. He noted that, despite current global challenges, Africa must continue to chart its own path toward unity and development.
In his remarks, Mr. Ansah underscored the persistent challenges faced by Africa, such as global economic inequalities, labor exploitation, insufficient democratic space, climate emergencies, and debt burdens. Despite these issues, he celebrated the collective strength of Africans, reminiscent of the resolve shown by leaders in 1945, to envision a free and united continent.
He urged for unity in Africa not only for political reasons but also for economic, social, and labor dignity. Mr. Ansah emphasized that the Fifth Pan-African Congress was not solely a political event but also a workers' movement advocating for fair wages, social protection, and an end to colonial labor practices, issues which remain pertinent today.
The anniversary event was inaugurated by President John Dramani Mahama and saw participation from notable figures such as former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, and several Ministers of Foreign Affairs from other African nations.