Africa faces vulnerabilities from Russia’s war on Ukraine
On October 24, 2024, Riga, the Third Parliamentary Summit of the Crimea Platform was held in Riga, the capital of Latvia, gathering over 70 delegations, including 36 heads of parliaments, both in-person and online.
The summit participants discussed current challenges related to the occupation of Crimea, human rights violations in the occupied territories, and the international response to Russia’s actions.
Andrew Asiamah Amoako, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana, emphasised that the African region has suffered irreparable damage due to Russia’s war in Ukraine. African governments are being forced to continually increase social benefits and support for vulnerable groups despite lacking sufficient budgets, which could ultimately lead to an economic crisis in the region.
ZMINA publishes his speech at the Third Parliamentary Summit of the Crimea Platform.
Your Excellencies, Honourable Speakers, Honourable Colleagues,
I bring you felicitations and warm greetings from the Speaker and the entire Parliament of Ghana as well as the good people of Ghana.
I’m here with my colleague to lend support and solidise with the government and good people of Ukraine in the quest of seeking justice, peace and security from their aggressors.
The war of Russia on Ukraine, which escalated into a full-scale war in February 2022, has sent shockwaves throughout the global economy. While the immediate humanitarian crisis is centred in Ukraine, the economic repercussions are being felt worldwide, with African countries facing unique vulnerabilities and challenges.
The economic vulnerabilities of African countries to the Russia-Ukraine war stem from several key factors. Many African countries heavily rely on imports of grains, fertilisers, cooking oil, steel products and other construction materials from Ukraine. This reliance leaves African countries exposed to supply distractions and price spikes on these essential commodities.
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Many governments in Africa and elsewhere may need to increase subsidies and social spending to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations, straining already limited and tight budgets. Russia’s action is therefore an attack on the world order, democratic values, rule of law, people’s freedom and liberties, and an attack on the economic survival of Africa and other vulnerable countries.
We therefore demand that the warfare of Russia on Ukraine be stopped as soon as possible, since their actions are against international humanitarian law and most especially against the moral conscience of the world.
Your Silences, Honourable Members, let me thank you once again for your attention and support.
Слава Україні.
