Prez. Mahama Urges Collective Effort Ahead of Ghana’s 70th Anniversary

By Maame Efua Kwaduah

President John Dramani Mahama has has outlined a vision of national progress and shared prosperity as Ghana prepares to mark its 70th anniversary of independence next year.

Speaking during the 69th Independence Day celebration at the Jubilee House, he urged citizens to renew their dedication to building a country characterized by opportunity, unity and sustainable growth.

During his address, President Mahama stressed that Ghana’s future progress is closely linked to the broader development of the African continent. He explained that the nation’s stability and prosperity cannot be separated from Africa’s collective advancement.

“Ghana’s destiny is inseparable from Africa’s destiny,” he said, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration among African countries to unlock economic opportunities and promote shared prosperity.

President Mahama assured citizens that Ghana will continue to demonstrate leadership by showing that democratic governance, economic reforms and African unity can work together to promote sustainable development.

As the country moves toward its 70th independence anniversary next year, the president urged Ghanaians to reaffirm their commitment to a national vision that prioritizes the well-being of every citizen.

He described a future Ghana where no child goes to bed hungry and where every individual has access to opportunities that enable them to improve their lives.

Among the major priorities outlined by the president was the need to strengthen the education sector to ensure it remains accessible and empowering for all. He emphasized that education must continue to serve as a vital tool for personal advancement and national progress.

“A Ghana where education is accessible and empowering,” President Mahama stated while outlining his aspirations for the country. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that healthcare services remain affordable and accessible to every Ghanaian.

He explained that improving the health system is essential for boosting productivity and enhancing the overall quality of life. President Mahama further highlighted the need to invest in world-class infrastructure that supports economic expansion and improves living standards nationwide.

According to him, strong infrastructure will help stimulate industrial growth and create opportunities for businesses and communities. He also underscored the importance of building an economy capable of producing the goods it consumes.

The president explained that strengthening local production will reduce dependence on imports while supporting domestic industries.

“A Ghana that produces what it consumes,” he said, stressing the importance of economic self-sufficiency.

President Mahama added that fairness and equal opportunity must remain central to the country’s development agenda. He noted that progress becomes more sustainable when opportunities are determined by merit rather than personal connections.

The president also highlighted the importance of expanding digital connectivity across the country. According to him, Ghana must work toward becoming a fully connected nation, linking communities from the southern border town of Aflao to the northern community of Hamile through modern digital infrastructure.

Environmental protection was another major issue addressed in his speech. President Mahama said safeguarding forests and natural resources is vital to ensuring that future generations inherit a healthy and sustainable environment.

“This vision is within reach, but it requires our collective efforts,” he said. Reflecting on Ghana’s journey since gaining independence 69 years ago, the president acknowledged that the country has experienced moments of difficulty and disappointment.

President Mahama praised the resilience of Ghanaians, acknowledging past challenges but emphasizing their perseverance. He pledged to serve with integrity and urged all citizens to contribute to national development, stressing that collective effort is key to achieving the country’s goals.

 “Wherever you are, whatever you do, do your part with excellence. Today we celebrate how far we have come and when we leave here tomorrow, we must commit ourselves to how far we will go,” he said.

The president noted Africa’s 1.4 billion-strong population and youthful workforce as a major opportunity for innovation and growth, highlighting the African Continental Free Trade Area in Accra as a platform to boost intra-continental trade, foster a single market for goods and services, and promote economic self-reliance.

 “A unified market for African goods and services, a platform for African innovation, and a foundation for Africa’s economic sovereignty,” he said while outlining the broader significance of the trade agreement.