When H.E. John Dramani Mahama took the oath of office on January 7, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra, it marked not just a return to the presidency but the beginning of a fresh chapter in Ghana’s leadership. The grand ceremony, attended by dignitaries and world leaders, symbolized a collective hope for national renewal.
In his inaugural speech, Mahama made it clear that he understood the immense weight of the public’s expectations. With the nation grappling with inflation, a weakening economy, and public trust at an all-time low, the President spoke boldly about his vision for a “national reset.” He emphasized the urgency of delivering tangible change, and the people of Ghana are keen to hold him accountable for the 26 promises he made during his campaign, which he aims to fulfill in his first 120 days in office.
Picture: His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama giving his inaugration speech to the people of the republic of Ghana after his swearing-in
Key Takeaways from President Mahama’s Inaugural Speech:
- Ghana’s Political Maturity: A Model for the World: President Mahama highlighted Ghana’s political maturity through peaceful transitions of power. He expressed, “Today, we are also making a different kind of history, one that speaks to our maturity as a democracy, a nation of citizens enfranchised with the authority to determine their political future at the polls.” He emphasized how this peaceful transition is a testament to Ghana’s democratic strength and the collective will of its people.
- A Bold Economic Reset for Growth: Mahama focused on the urgent need for economic restoration, reflecting on the challenges faced by the nation. He boldly stated, “We are a people buffeted by severe economic suffering and hardships. In the last few years, we have lurched from crisis to crisis. But there is hope. Today marks the beginning of a new opportunity. An opportunity to make a difference in our governance and economic management. We shall reset Ghana!” This commitment signals his intention to stabilize the economy, restore growth, and create new opportunities for all Ghanaians.
- Breaking Barriers with Inclusivity and Empowerment: A historic moment during the speech was the swearing-in of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. Mahama emphasized this milestone, saying, “With the inauguration of Ghana’s first female Vice President, we have turned a significant page in our history. Naana Jane’s ascension to this high office is not merely a personal triumph; it symbolises our collective commitment to fostering a nation where gender equality and female representation are cherished and amplified.” This commitment reflects Mahama’s goal of fostering inclusivity in leadership.
- Empowering the Youth for a Bright Future: Mahama spoke directly to the youth of Ghana, stressing their importance in the nation’s future. He affirmed, “This moment is a powerful affirmation that your voices matter, that your aspirations are valid and that your future is a priority. We are committed to translating your hopes into action and creating opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, employment and empowerment.” He focused on creating opportunities for education and employment for young people, reinforcing their role in driving the nation forward.
- Ghana’s Global Leadership Role: Mahama reflected on the shifting global power dynamics and Ghana’s place within it. He noted, “The world in which Ghana exists today, as I begin this presidency, is not the same world in which we have lived under any other Ghana presidency.” He highlighted the importance of global cooperation and strengthening regional alliances, particularly in response to global shifts in economics, technology, and climate change.
- Unity and Collective Action for a Prosperous Ghana: Emphasizing the need for unity in the pursuit of national progress, Mahama called for collaboration among all citizens. He said, “Together, as we look to the horizon, we reaffirm our dedication to breaking the glass ceiling that has long hindered many from reaching their full potential—Governance that reflects all segments of our population strengthens our democracy and enriches our conversations.” His call to action urged all Ghanaians to work together for the common good, setting aside differences for a unified and prosperous future.
Some of His Key Promises for the First 120 Days:
- Economic Stabilization: Mahama promises to stabilize the economy by managing inflation, reducing the cost of living, and strengthening the Ghanaian cedi.
- Debt Management: He plans to restructure Ghana’s debt to make it more manageable, alleviating the financial burden on the nation.
- Tax and Business Reforms: A comprehensive review of the tax system to ensure fairness, create a business-friendly environment, and stimulate economic growth.
- Youth Employment: Creation of job opportunities for young people, with a focus on youth entrepreneurship, vocational training, and small-scale industrialization.
- Free Senior High School (SHS) Expansion: He will continue and expand the Free SHS policy to ensure access to quality education for all Ghanaian children.
- Agriculture Support: Strengthening the agricultural sector to enhance food security, support local farmers, and improve agricultural exports.
- Infrastructure Development: Upgrading and expanding critical infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to support economic growth and improve living standards.
- National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) Strengthening: Mahama promises to make health services more accessible by improving and expanding the NHIS to cover more citizens.
- Combating Corruption: Strengthening anti-corruption institutions to hold public officials accountable and recover public funds.
- Promoting Digital Transformation: Enhancing the digital infrastructure to promote technological advancement, digital literacy, and economic growth through innovation.
- Improving Public Sector Efficiency: Streamlining government processes and policies to ensure efficient service delivery and greater transparency in public office.
- Energy and Power Stability: Addressing the energy crisis and improving the supply of electricity across the country to fuel industrial growth and job creation.
Expect to see a leadership focused on results, with a government that will act with purpose, urgency, and a deep sense of responsibility. The President’s roadmap promises bold actions, and with public trust at stake, all eyes are on him to deliver the changes that Ghana desperately needs.
For more updates on President Mahama’s journey, follow the full story through these links:
H.E. John Dramani Mahama Begins Second Term with Pledge for a National Reset
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