A new down for Ghana: Prez Mahama’s reflective inaugural address

On January 7, 2025, the streets of Accra were filled with an electric sense of anticipation as Ghana marked another historic moment— the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama. The atmosphere was charged with optimism as Mahama, now the newly elected leader of the Republic of Ghana, took to the stage for his inaugural speech, calling on the nation to join him in embarking on a journey of hope, transformation, and nation-building.

Mahama began his address with profound reverence to the Almighty, acknowledging the divine providence that had granted him the opportunity to “reset Ghana” at a crucial juncture in the nation’s history. “Our Father who art in heaven, thank you for giving me this day,” Mahama said, a humble reminder that leadership is a sacred trust, one to be exercised with the utmost care and responsibility.

He took a moment to reflect on the importance of Ghana’s democratic journey, drawing parallels between his own swearing-in ceremony and the nation’s first successful transition of power in 1993. Mahama highlighted that Ghana’s democracy had reached a milestone of maturity, as evidenced by the peaceful transfer of power from the outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, to himself. This continuity and peaceful transition between two different leaders, he remarked, is a testament to the strength of Ghana’s democratic institutions.

Ghana’s democracy, however, has not been without its challenges. As Mahama noted, the political landscape is shaped by both triumphs and failures. He acknowledged the impact of his own one-term presidency, reflecting on the weight of public expectations and the lessons learned. He paid tribute to his political adversaries, including Akufo-Addo and former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for their sportsmanship and mutual respect throughout the campaign.

Turning his focus to the current global situation, Mahama underscored the increasingly volatile geopolitical environment in which Ghana finds itself. He drew attention to the shifting balance of economic power, with the rise of the BRICS nations and the decline of traditional economic powers like the G7. This shift presents both opportunities and challenges for Ghana, and Mahama vowed to navigate this complex terrain with wisdom, urging Ghana’s government to maintain strong regional ties and solidarity with neighbouring countries.

Beyond politics, Mahama also addressed the pressing issues of climate change, public health, and the security challenges that face the nation. He spoke with urgency about strengthening Ghana’s public health systems to mitigate the impact of potential future pandemics, recalling the devastating toll of past outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19. Climate change, too, was highlighted as a critical concern, with rising temperatures and the melting of ice caps threatening to destabilize ecosystems and public health worldwide.

Yet, it was in addressing the economic challenges facing Ghana that Mahama’s words struck the deepest chord. “We are a people buffeted by severe economic suffering and hardships,” he said, acknowledging the difficulties many Ghanaians face due to high inflation, unemployment, and the country’s strained financial resources. But Mahama’s tone was not one of despair. Rather, he framed the moment as one of opportunity—an opportunity for a “reset” in Ghana’s governance and economic management. The election results, he explained, were a clear mandate from the people of Ghana, who had chosen change, renewal, and transformation.

As part of his vision for Ghana’s future, Mahama laid out his administration’s immediate priorities: economic restoration, improving the business and investment environment, constitutional reforms, and tackling corruption. He announced a covenant with the people, pledging twenty-six specific actions to be taken within his first 120 days in office. His approach to leadership, he promised, would be grounded in transparency, accountability, and decisive action.

Mahama’s address also celebrated the historic moment of the inauguration of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. In a powerful statement on gender equality, he hailed her ascension to the role as a symbol of the country’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and representative government. The representation of women in leadership roles, Mahama emphasized, is not only a personal achievement for Opoku-Agyemang but a collective triumph for all Ghanaians, and a call for breaking down the barriers that have long hindered women’s full participation in governance.

Looking to the future, Mahama articulated a vision for a 24-hour Ghanaian economy—one that would operate around the clock, harnessing the untapped potential of agriculture, agribusiness, and innovation. The 24-hour economy, Mahama explained, would create jobs, stimulate local industries, and attract foreign investments, ensuring that young Ghanaians have the opportunities they need to thrive. He also stressed the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly among the youth, who he described as the heartbeat of Ghana’s democracy.

In a stirring call to action, Mahama urged every Ghanaian to imagine a better, more prosperous nation and to commit themselves to contributing toward its realization. “What can you do to help build that better Ghana?” he asked, inspiring citizens to take ownership of the nation’s future.

The inaugural address concluded with an invitation to all Ghanaians—politicians, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and citizens alike—to join hands in shaping a new chapter for the nation. Mahama extended his gratitude to the heads of state and dignitaries who had come to celebrate this historic moment with Ghana. His message was clear: this journey was not his alone but a collective endeavor.

With renewed hope and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of every Ghanaian, President John Dramani Mahama’s inauguration was more than a ceremonial occasion—it was the beginning of a new era for Ghana, one that promised transformative change, opportunity, and progress for all its citizens.

As Mahama concluded his address with a call for unity, progress, and equality, it was clear that the reset he envisioned was not just a political change but a call to action for the entire nation. The road ahead may be challenging, but with collective effort, there is hope that Ghana’s future will be brighter than ever before.

“Let’s work hand in hand to foster these values and strengthen our nation for everyone,” Mahama urged. And with that, Ghana embarked on a new chapter, ready to face the future with optimism, resilience, and the unwavering belief that change is possible.

25 Inaugural Speech by President JD Mahama