A national vision has been outlined for Ghana as the country approaches its 70th independence anniversary next year, including ensuring no child goes to bed hungry and education is accessible and empowering.
The vision also includes affordable and accessible healthcare, world-class infrastructure, a Ghana that produces what it consumes, and a nation where merit, not connections, decides opportunity.
Additional elements include a Ghana digitally connected from Aflao to Hamile and a nation that preserves its forests and environment for future generations.
President John Dramani Mahama outlined this vision on Friday during Ghana’s 69th Independence Day celebration at the Presidency in Accra.
He stated that the vision is within reach but requires collective efforts from all Ghanaians.
The President emphasized that 69 years ago the nation was born in hope, and Ghanaians have gathered to renew that hope.
He acknowledged that the journey has not always been smooth, with the nation having stumbled and often felt disappointed, but stated that Ghanaians have never given up.
President Mahama noted that the resilience that defines the Ghanaian spirit still lives on.
He stated that Ghana’s destiny is inseparable from Africa’s destiny, noting that Africa is home to over 1.4 billion people and possesses the youngest workforce in the world.
The President noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area, based in Accra, is one of the most ambitious economic integration projects in the history of the world, representing a unified market for African goods and services and a foundation for Africa’s economic sovereignty.
He stated that Ghana will continue to lead by example, demonstrating that democracy, economic reform, and African unity can succeed together.
President Mahama announced that he has assented to the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, which has now become law, describing it as a historic reform that will boost Ghana’s productivity.
He stated that businesses will be incentivized to run across multiple shifts, factories will operate around the clock, and services will become more accessible to citizens.
The President disclosed that thousands of new jobs will be generated across various sectors, ranging from manufacturing and logistics to security and transportation.
He stated that the initiative will enable Ghana to optimize the use of national infrastructure and establish the country as a competitive industrial hub.
President Mahama announced that the government is in the final stages of setting up the Women’s Development Bank under the leadership of Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.
He noted that women entrepreneurs have historically been the backbone of Ghana’s informal economy, yet too many face barriers to affordable credit.
The President stated that the Women’s Development Bank will provide accessible financing, mentorship, and business support tailored to women-led enterprises.
He emphasized that when women succeed, families thrive and nations prosper, declaring that Ghana is committed to investing so women realize their full potential.
President Mahama stated that the government is investing in digital infrastructure, entrepreneurship programs, and innovation hubs across the country from Accra to Kumasi to Tamale, Takoradi, Ho, and Koforidua.
He disclosed that the government is reforming education to meet the needs of the modern economy and expanding internship and apprenticeship programs to bridge the gap between school and the world of work.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
