Newly sworn-in President John Dramani Mahama delivered a powerful inaugural address at the iconic Black Star Square, laying out a vision of hope, accountability, and unity for Ghana’s future. Mahama emphasized a collective national reset to foster resilience, economic prosperity, and governance reform, urging all Ghanaians to join him in reshaping the country’s trajectory.
President Mahama expressed his heartfelt thanks to the millions of Ghanaians who supported his leadership in a speech brimming with gratitude and determination. “To the millions of my fellow countrymen and women who joined long queues and waited in the sun to vote for me, you have my sincerest thanks for honoring me. Your courage to bring change will not go in vain,” he declared. He pledged to translate their votes into transformative policies and tangible change.
Mahama assured the nation that his administration would be marked by sound judgment and a willingness to take full responsibility for the challenges ahead. “I will have the humility to take responsibility for any challenges and be willing to ask for help resolving them,” he stated.
Outlining the priorities of his presidency, Mahama highlighted four core areas of focus: economic restoration and stabilization, a favorable business environment, governance and constitutional reforms, and the fight against corruption. These pillars, he asserted, would lay the foundation for a stronger and more equitable Ghana.
The President extended an open invitation to the business community, emphasizing that Ghana was ready to reclaim its position as a hub for innovation and investment. “We will rationalize our tax systems to make them fair and transparent. The business community must know that Ghana is back in business,” he affirmed, signaling a commitment to creating a thriving, business-friendly environment.
Mahama also called for resetting faith in Ghana’s institutions and collective identity. “We need a reset of faith — in our country, institutions, and ourselves,” he declared. Encouraging every Ghanaian to play an active role in the nation’s development, he urged, “You are Ghana, I am Ghana. Together, we make this country. Let us enter a covenant to build the Ghana we all desire.”
Turning his focus to the youth and women of Ghana, Mahama pledged to center his administration’s policies around inclusivity and opportunity. “Our youth represent the heartbeat of our democracy. Their ambitions will drive our policies,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to creating jobs and empowering young people. Celebrating Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s historic election as the first female vice president, he described her achievement as a symbol of Ghana’s progress toward gender equality.
“With Nana Jane by my side, we are committed to creating a society where barriers are shattered, and ambitions are realized,” Mahama remarked. His administration, he promised, would prioritize policies that empower women and create a society where opportunities are accessible to all, irrespective of background.
Mahama unveiled an ambitious concept of a 24-hour economy to revolutionize Ghana’s economic landscape. This model, he explained, would ensure that markets, businesses, and public services operate around the clock, creating decent jobs, stimulating local industries, and attracting foreign investments. “This model will create decent jobs for young people, stimulate local industry, and foster resilient communities,” he said.
Envisioning bustling markets and responsive public services operating at all times, Mahama painted a picture of an economically vibrant and socially inclusive Ghana. He stressed the need for government and private sector collaboration, highlighting entrepreneurs’ critical role in driving innovation and development. “Your innovation and dedication will be the backbone of our success story,” he told business leaders.
On the international stage, Mahama committed to strengthening Ghana’s relationships with neighboring countries and global partners. “To our friends from across Africa and the world, I say ‘Akwaaba!’ Your presence is a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations,” he said, emphasizing regional stability and economic collaboration.
As his address neared its conclusion, Mahama issued a patriotic call to action, urging all Ghanaians to unite in the nation-building mission. “This is a patriotic call to action for all of us to participate in building a nation that lives up to its promise, where unity, progress, and equality are not just ideals but the very fabric of our nation,” he stated passionately.
The President wrapped up his speech with a prayer for Ghana’s continued prosperity and a firm commitment to governance marked by accountability and transformative progress. “Let us write the next chapter in Ghana’s story — one of promise, transparency, and transformative progress. May God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong,” he concluded, inspiring hope for a brighter future.
