Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama warned against a new scramble for Africa's resources at the UN General Assembly in New York on Thursday, calling for critical minerals to be processed on the continent.

"Africa will not remain a passive arena for a new scramble for resources. Critical mineral extraction in Africa must not replicate colonial-era exploitation," Mahama stressed.

He said Africa should build local industries, create jobs for its youth and retain the value of its natural resources rather than continuing to export raw materials while value addition takes place elsewhere.

"Africa does not seek charity. Africa seeks equal partnership that is anchored in mutual respect," he added.

Mahama also said developing countries face borrowing costs up to eight times higher than industrialised nations.

He also renewed calls for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council, saying reform was "not a favour to Africa" but necessary for the UN's legitimacy and credibility.

The president said African leaders must also "put our own houses in order", calling for greater transparency, accountability and stronger action against corruption.

The UN General Assembly brings together 193 member states, with this year's session held under the theme "Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All."