New York- USA, 20 August 2025
UN Secretary-General António Guterres told a development conference in Japan that Africa is “poised for progress” and must have a greater say in global governance.
During a development conference in Yokohama, Japan, UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a powerful message, stating that “Africa is poised for progress” and that its voice must be amplified in global decision-making. Guterres highlighted the need for the long-overdue reform of global governance institutions, including the UN Security Council, where, he noted, Africa has no permanent member.
He also called for a major overhaul of the international financial architecture, which he described as “unjust and unfair,” and for bold action on debt relief for the continent. Guterres’s remarks underscored the importance of shifting the global mindset from “development for Africa” to “development with Africa,” emphasizing the need for partnerships and investment to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.
* Global Governance Reform:
The UN Secretary-General is advocating for a more representative Security Council with a permanent African member.
* Financial System Overhaul:
Guterres is calling for a “unjust” global financial system to be reformed to better serve Africa.
* Debt Relief:
He is pushing for significant debt relief to support the continent’s economic development.
* Partnership-Focused Approach:
The call to action is centered on a collaborative model of development, working with African nations rather than for them.
