President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana was honored with the prestigious 2024 Atlantic Council Global Citizen Award, recognizing his contributions to global peace, democracy, and human development.
The award ceremony, held on September 23, 2024, at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City, also honored global leaders including Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Korean media pioneer Miky Lee.
In his acceptance speech, Akufo-Addo credited the people of Ghana, saying, “This moment is not just about me—it’s about the people of Ghana, who inspire me with their resilience, strength, and unwavering belief in a brighter future.”
President Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of international collaboration to address global challenges, stating, “In today’s interconnected world, no nation can stand alone. Our future…depends on our ability to work together and lift each other up.”
He reflected on his tenure, highlighting efforts to strengthen Ghana’s democratic institutions and expand opportunities for its people.
He also acknowledged the vital role of global partnerships, including Ghana’s strong relationship with the United States, which he praised for its shared values of democracy and human rights.
Kenyan President William Ruto introduced President Akufo-Addo, lauding his leadership as part of Africa’s new wave of governance aimed at elevating the continent on the global stage.
In his speech, Akufo-Addo emphasized Africa’s increasing role in global affairs and called on the international community to unite in addressing challenges like climate change, inequality, and terrorism.
As his presidency draws to a close, Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his commitment to democracy and global citizenship, quoting poet John Donne: “No man is an island… Every man is a piece of the continent.”
