President John Dramani Mahama has called for urgent reforms to strengthen human rights institutions across Africa, warning that the continent’s rapidly growing youthful population represents both an unprecedented opportunity and a serious responsibility.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Judicial Year of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, President Mahama pointed to projections that Africa’s population will reach approximately 2.5 billion by 2050, accounting for more than a quarter of the global population.

With a median age of just 19, he described Africa as the youngest and potentially most dynamic region in the world. However, he cautioned that this demographic advantage would only translate into prosperity if it is grounded in justice, opportunity, and strong, independent institutions.

According to him, safeguarding fundamental rights;  including life, dignity, liberty, and self-determination, is central to unlocking the continent’s full potential.

President Mahama warned that injustice, corruption, oppression, and weak governance structures could easily undermine Africa’s demographic dividend, turning what should be a strength into a source of instability.

“A young population without hope, protection, and opportunity is not a dividend but a risk,” he stated.

Declaring the 2026 Judicial Year officially open, he urged African leaders, judges, and policymakers to reinforce democratic institutions and ensure accountability across all levels of governance.

He concluded by calling on the continent to uphold its commitments to future generations, stressing that Africa must seize its historic moment, fulfill its promises, and confidently chart a path toward sustainable development and justice.