African leaders have warned that a sovereignty deficit is bleeding the continent of trillions of dollars in capital exported to other countries through mounting external debts and unfair international partnerships, leaving Black nations struggling and underdeveloped despite their vast resources.

The president of the UN General Assembly, Khalilur Rahman, representing Bangladesh at the 81st General Assembly session on Monday, said Africa’s major challenge was “not a lack of resources” but a sovereignty deficit that prevents African leaders from negotiating fair trade deals with international entities.

He called for a shift from “short-term extraction to long-term stewardship”.

Namibia’s representative supported Mr Rahman’s argument, saying Africa must reach a self-sustaining point where the continent uses its own critical minerals to generate wealth and job opportunities.

According to the Namibian delegate, Africa’s resources must support its own transformation.

He said the continent’s resource wealth must be channelled toward improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

“The industries we build, the employment we create and the lasting benefits delivered to African people,” the Namibian envoy said.

Using Zambia as a case study, the country’s representative said a stable economy was attainable through production, investment and jobs.

Egypt’s delegate made a similar point, saying Africa’s challenge was managing its own resources for profit and investing the gains in development.

“Africa’s transformation requires African-led solutions, capable institutions and sustainable international cooperation to translate its strategic assets into shared prosperity and durable peace,” Angola’s envoy said.