By Juliet ETEFE ([email protected])
John Dramani Mahama has officially assumed office as the President of the Republic of Ghana, pledging to steer the nation towards economic restoration, better business opportunities, accountable governance and constitutional reforms.
In his inaugural speech on January 7, 2025, President Mahama identified economic restoration and macroeconomic stability as the foremost priority for his administration.
He underscored the urgent need to stabilise the economy while creating a conducive business environment for growth.
With a vision to make Ghana a hub for investments, the President also promised reforms, emphasising the importance of attracting both local and foreign investors.
He pledged to rationalise the tax regime to make it more transparent and fairer, thereby fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
President Mahama further placed significant emphasis on accountability, vowing to tackle corruption head-on, assuring the citizenry of his commitment to constitutional changes that reflect the aspirations of the people as well as political and administrative systems that enhance efficiency and inclusivity.
“I intend to speak plainly and clearly to you today and every time I address you subsequently. I intend to always tell you the truth. The circumstances we find ourselves in are indeed dire. But even so, I will be decisive and swift in my actions.
“We will focus our initial efforts on four critical areas. It is economic restoration and stabilisation of the macroeconomic environment. The second is the improvement of the business and investment environment to ensure that Ghana is once again open for business.
“The third is governance and constitutional reforms. And the final, but not the least, is accountability and the fight against corruption. Actions have always spoken louder than words. With you, the good people of Ghana, in which I have enumerated 26 actions that I will take within my first 120 days. There is every reason for hope – we must have faith. We need a reset with the faith we have in our institutions. We need a reset with our faith in our dear nation, Ghana,” he reaffirmed.
President Mahama called on all Ghanaians to contribute to the nation’s transformation, adding: “This journey belongs to all of us”.
Highlighting innovation as a key driver, Mr. Mahama outlined plans for a vibrant 24-hour economy anchored in agriculture and technology. “Imagine a Ghana bustling at all hours, with responsive public services and opportunities for all,” he envisioned.
Historic milestone for gender equality
The inauguration also celebrated a groundbreaking moment in Ghana’s history—the swearing-in of Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as the country’s first female Vice President.
President Mahama described her achievement as “a significant page in our history,” symbolising progress toward gender equality and the empowerment of women.
“This milestone reaffirms our dedication to breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity…All segments of our population strengthen our democracy and enriches our conversation. We stand committed to enacting policies that empower women and ensure that the door for our youth and our women, regardless of their background. Together we will galvanise our efforts to create a society where every Ghanaian can dream, believe and achieve without any restraints.
“My administration, along with my vice-president, will prioritise inclusivity, accountability and innovation, forging pathways that will lead to the upliftment of all of our citizens.
“In this resounding victory, I see a clarion call, particularly from the youth of Ghana, a generation that is brimming with potential and dreams that are waiting to be realised,” he stated.
Global shifts
He emphasised the necessity of undertaking a “reset” of the nation’s economic and political systems, drawing attention to the shifting dynamics on the global stage.
Mahama highlighted the decline of the G7 nations’ dominance and the rise of the BRICS countries in global economic influence.
He emphasised that Ghana must position itself to take advantage of these global shifts, ensuring its place in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
“In 2023, for instance, the G7’s combined total of world GDP was 30%. But by 2029, that number is predicted to drop to 27%. In 2023, the BRICS percentage of world GDP was 37.3%. So what does this mean to us in Ghana? What could it mean to our economy? Where do we fit in this geopolitical maelstrom? ” he states.
Solidarity and regional growth
He underscored the need to strengthen ties with neighboring countries, referencing the shared cultural and familial bonds that exist across borders. These connections, he noted, should be leveraged to ensure stability, safety and mutual progress in the region.
The President also recognised the growing challenges posed by climate change, pandemics, and global security threats and promised to enhance Ghana’s preparedness for future crises, particularly in public health.
“The next pandemic must find us ready, minimising the loss of lives in Ghana,” he asserted.
He expressed his deep gratitude for the trust placed in him by the people of Ghana and called upon all citizens to unite in the collective effort to restore hope and prosperity to the nation.
