African Leaders Commit to New Development Agenda in Accra

The third edition of the Elevate Africa Convening took place in Accra, Ghana, culminating in the Accra Declaration of Commitment on October 28, 2026. This declaration was signed by prominent African leaders, including former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, former Malawian President Joyce Banda, and former Mauritian President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim.

The gathering, co-founded by the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, and Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III, aimed to address Africa's development challenges under the theme "Africa: Defining Her Future." The Accra Declaration outlines 19 commitments focused on confronting the historical impacts of the transatlantic slave trade, enhancing economic integration, and rebuilding leadership and public trust. The signatories emphasized that the declaration should not replace governmental policy but rather encourage African governments and institutions to implement its commitments through practical policies and programs.