President John Dramani Mahama says Africa rising from violence and dictatorship to a peaceful democracy with its economy transforming.

African he indicated is also rising from poverty and misery with hope and improved living standards.

This was contained in a statement issued by President Mahama as Africa commemorate the African Union (AU) day celebration.

President Mahama in his message said although Africa has gained strides in resolving the challenges in the continent, there remains much more work to done.

Africa he added, do not need sympathy but opportunities and partnerships.

"Of course, things are far from perfect in Africa, and we still have a long way to go, especially when it comes to sustainable solutions for our youth. However, our voice is now stronger and more respected in the world. We no longer need sympathy – we need fair partnerships and opportunities".

Below is the full statement from President Mahama

My brothers and sisters, today we celebrate Mother Africa.

Over the last decade, African countries, like our beloved Ghana, have been working to improve further our democratic credentials and economic prospects.

I am happy that Ghana continues to lead this effort and is impacting our subregion and the continent.

This in itself is ensuring a powerful and positive impact on the wellbeing of millions and millions of people. Africa is rising, there is no question about that.

We are rising from violence and dictatorship to peace and democracy; we are transforming our economies from those based on the export of raw materials to modern ones, able to produce value added goods and services; we are rising from misery and absolute poverty to a place of hope and improved standards of living.

The African middle class is the fastest growing middle class in the world today. Of course, things are far from perfect in Africa, and we still have a long way to go, especially when it comes to sustainable solutions for our youth.

However, our voice is now stronger and more respected in the world. We no longer need sympathy – we need fair partnerships and opportunities.

Let us all continue on this path of transformation. Let us all keep working hard for a better future for our generation and the generations yet to come.

Let us all unite in our common prayer for a more open and inclusive Africa, where everyone would live a dignified and meaningful life.

May God bless Mother Africa, our forebears and all our brothers and sisters!