Accra becomes home to Pan-African Progressive Front headquarters

The Pan-African Progressive Front (PPF) has officially opened its headquarters in Accra, a move described by organisers as a turning point in the struggle for African unity and self-determination.

The inauguration ceremony, held on Monday, June 30, 2025, brought together dignitaries, activists, academics, and cultural figures. The event marked what many in attendance called a significant step forward for the Pan-African movement.

Dr Eric George Alexander Don-Arthur, former presidential advisor and a member of the PPF International Organising Committee, called the opening of the headquarters a “monumental step forward for the Pan-African cause.”

Speaking at the event, Dr Don-Arthur praised Ghana’s role as host of the new secretariat, describing it as a “timely boost to the continent’s collective ambitions.”

“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey toward promoting Pan-Africanism, unity and progress across the length and breadth of our continent. We are reminded of the rich history and legacy of Pan-Africanism. From the early pioneers who fought for independence and self-determination to the modern-day champions of African unity, we stand on the shoulders of these giants,” he said.

Dr Don-Arthur announced that Accra will host a major international conference in October to mark the 80th anniversary of the Fifth Pan-African Congress, originally held in Manchester in 1945.

That congress featured notable figures such as Kwame Nkrumah, George Padmore, W.E.B. Du Bois, Jomo Kenyatta and Hastings Banda. Their advocacy helped inspire independence movements across Africa.

“This year’s commemoration is not just about remembering the past,” Dr Don-Arthur added. “It is about rekindling the fire of freedom and working toward total unification, economic emancipation and rapid development. The October event will be a rallying point for all progressive voices in Africa and the diaspora.”

Dr Abu Sakara, former presidential candidate in Ghana, also spoke at the event. He urged African leaders and citizens to renew their commitment to building a self-reliant continent.

“We are committed to working hard to realise this dream. Our focus is on social justice, cultural pride and building a stronger, more prosperous Africa. We want a continent where every individual can thrive using our vast resources to benefit our people. Pan-Africanism remains at the heart of our collective fight for liberation and self-determination,” he said.

Veteran journalist and former Minister for Information in Ghana, Fritz Baffour, delivered a message of solidarity. He referenced the growing number of African migrants risking dangerous journeys in search of better lives, calling the trend “a tragic symbol of lost hope.”

“In 1945, we believed Africa was on a winning path. But the steady retreat of progressive thinking and the influence of external forces have challenged that optimism. It is good that we now have an organisation like the PPF because the seeds of this struggle were planted right here in Ghana. We must answer the question of who we are. We have to find pride in our identity and use that understanding to build a better future,” Baffour said.

He also called on the younger generation to connect with the ideals of the movement and help build the dream of African unity.

The keynote address was delivered by Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount Chief of Essikado Traditional Area. He emphasised the importance of authentic leadership rooted in community values.

“It is not African to drive big cars and carry grand titles while the man on the street is suffering. Let us share in the pain of others. We must question everything we are told. Do not accept things blindly. Be aware, be conscious and lead with compassion. That is what true African leadership looks like,” he said.

After his remarks, Nana Nketsia led the dignitaries in cutting the tape to officially open the PPF headquarters, located at Ringway Estates in Accra.

The event was moderated by veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt, who is a member of the PPF Planning Committee. The programme included a poetry recital by Oswald Okantey.

The PPF describes itself as a platform for promoting the Pan-African agenda based on the decisions of the 1945 Pan-African Congress in Manchester. It seeks to unite anti-imperialist forces including political parties, trade unions, youth and student groups, women’s movements, cultural organisations and environmental groups.
As part of its work, the PPF hosted an online forum on June 17, 2025, bringing together key Pan-African organisations. Participants resolved to petition the African Union to demand real compensation from Western countries for their colonial legacy in Africa.