President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to embrace discipline, patriotism, and integrity as the country commemorates its 69th Independence Day, stressing that national progress depends on a renewed commitment from both leaders and citizens.
Speaking at the national celebration held at the Flagstaff House in Accra on Friday, the President said the anniversary theme, “Building Prosperity, Inspiring Hope,” reflects a shared responsibility to create opportunities and restore confidence in the nation’s future.
“This theme is more than just ceremonial. It represents a covenant between the government and the governed — a solemn promise that every decision we make must foster prosperity and renew hope for every Ghanaian,” he stated.
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President Mahama paid tribute to Ghana’s founding father, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, whose leadership led the country to independence in 1957 and inspired liberation movements across Africa.
Ghana’s democratic resilience and peaceful transfers of power, he said, demonstrate the maturity of its political system.
“Our democracy has endured because we have learned to compete without destroying, to disagree without hatred, and to transfer power peacefully,” he said.
President Mahama also acknowledged the contributions of successive leaders whose administrations, he said, have each played a role in building modern Ghana.
President Mahama reiterated his government’s commitment to the “Resetting Ghana” agenda, which he said aims to reform governance, stabilise the economy, and rebuild public confidence.
He noted that economic indicators are gradually improving.
“Inflation is declining, the local currency is stabilising, and confidence in the Ghanaian economy is gradually returning,” the President said.
Mr. Mahama added that the government has renegotiated debt arrangements and redirected resources toward healthcare, education, agriculture, and job creation.
A key highlight of the address was the announcement that the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill has been signed into law.
According to the President, the initiative will encourage businesses and factories to operate in multiple shifts, increasing productivity and creating thousands of jobs.
“Factories will operate around the clock, services will become more accessible, and new opportunities will emerge across manufacturing, logistics, security, and transportation,” he said.
The President also revealed that the government is in the final stages of establishing the Women’s Development Bank, an initiative being spearheaded by Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.
The bank will provide accessible financing and mentorship for women-owned businesses.
“When women succeed, families thrive, and nations prosper,” the President said.
Addressing young Ghanaians, Mahama acknowledged their frustrations but urged them to prepare for opportunities in the digital economy.
He said the government is expanding digital infrastructure, entrepreneurship programmes, and innovation hubs across major cities to support youth development.
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it,” he said.
As Ghana approaches its 70th Independence Anniversary next year, Mahama called on citizens to unite behind a shared national vision.
He outlined aspirations for a Ghana where no child goes hungry, education is accessible, healthcare is affordable, and economic opportunities are based on merit rather than connections.
“Building prosperity and inspiring hope is not merely today’s theme — it is our national mission,” he said.
The President concluded by urging citizens to contribute positively to national development.
“Wherever you are and whatever you do, do it with excellence — for Ghana, for Africa and for generations yet unborn.”