Key Points from John Mahama’s Inaugural Speech: A Call for National Renewal and Transformation

 

Newly sworn-in President His Excellency John Dramani Mahama delivered a fervent inaugural speech at the Black Star Square, presenting his vision for Ghana’s economic recovery, greater inclusivity, and reforms in governance.

 

Mahama’s speech emphasized accountability, innovation, and unity, urging Ghanaians to join him in a national reset to create a more prosperous and resilient nation.

 

In addressing Ghanaians from all walks of life, His Excellency Mahama expressed heartfelt gratitude to voters for placing their trust in his leadership, assuring them that their votes would lead to tangible change.

 

Gratitude to Ghanaians for the Mandate

“To the millions of my fellow countrymen and women who joined long queues and waited in the sun to vote for me, you have my sincerest thanks for honoring me. Your courage to bring about change will not be in vain,” Mahama said, pledging to make decisions that would positively shape the nation’s future.

 

He reassured Ghanaians that he would govern with sound judgment and take responsibility for tackling the country’s challenges. “I will have the humility to take responsibility for any challenges and be willing to seek help in resolving them,” he emphasized.

 

Economic Recovery at the Forefront

 

In his address, Mahama highlighted four key areas that will be central to his administration’s agenda:

 

1. Restoring and Stabilizing the Economy

 

 

2. Enhancing the Business and Investment Climate

 

 

3. Reforming Governance and the Constitution

 

 

4. Promoting Accountability and Tackling Corruption

 

 

 

He assured both businesses and investors that Ghana is once again open for business, promising a more transparent and equitable tax system aimed at stimulating growth.

 

“We will streamline our tax system to ensure fairness and transparency. The business community must know that Ghana is back on track,” he stated.

 

A Call for a National Reset

 

Mahama stressed the importance of a national reset to rebuild trust in Ghana’s institutions and leadership.

 

“We need to restore faith — in our nation, in our institutions, and in ourselves,” he remarked. “You are Ghana, I am Ghana. Together, we are the country. Let’s commit to building the Ghana we all aspire to.”

 

He urged citizens to imagine the Ghana they want to pass on to future generations, calling for a shift in attitudes, behaviors, and mindsets to drive collective progress.

 

Empowering Youth and Women

The President placed particular focus on the empowerment of youth and women, promising policies aimed at job creation and inclusivity.

 

“Our youth are the pulse of our democracy. Their dreams will drive our policies,” Mahama affirmed, pledging to implement a 24-hour economy model to create employment and boost local industries.

 

He also hailed Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s historic achievement as Ghana’s first female vice president, describing her inauguration as a milestone in the country’s progress toward gender equality.

 

“With Nana Jane by my side, we are dedicated to building a society where barriers are broken, and dreams are fulfilled,” he stated.

 

“We will implement policies that empower women and ensure that opportunities are available to all, regardless of their background,” he said.

 

A 24-Hour Economy

Mahama introduced the concept of a 24-hour economy, aiming to unlock Ghana’s untapped economic potential by keeping markets, public services, and businesses running around the clock.

 

“This model will create meaningful jobs for young people, stimulate local industries, attract foreign investments, and build resilient communities,” Mahama explained.

 

He envisioned a vibrant economy with bustling markets, flexible business hours, and responsive public services, all operating continuously to meet the diverse needs of citizens.

 

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity

Mahama pledged that his administration would prioritize diversity in governance, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, or religion, plays a role in the nation’s development.

 

“Our decisions will be centered on inclusivity, ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table,” he stated. “We will work towards creating an equitable society where opportunities are accessible to all.”

Message to the Business Community

He called on business leaders and entrepreneurs to align with his vision, emphasizing the crucial role of the private sector in driving Ghana’s growth.

 

“Your innovation and dedication will form the foundation of our success story,” Mahama said. He assured the business community that his administration would strive to create a more business-friendly environment and encourage public-private partnerships.

 

Regional Cooperation and International Partnerships

Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Ghana’s relationships with neighboring countries and collaborating for regional stability and economic progress.

 

“To our friends from across Africa and the world, I say ‘Akwaaba!’ Your presence reflects the strong ties of friendship and cooperation between our nations,” he remarked.

 

A Call to Action for Ghanaians

Mahama concluded his speech with a patriotic appeal, urging all Ghanaians to join hands with his administration in shaping a brighter future for the country.

 

“This is a patriotic call to action for all of us to participate in building a nation that lives up to its promise, where unity, progress, and equality are not just ideals but the very essence of our nation,” he said.

 

The President wrapped up by invoking God’s blessings upon Ghana and reaffirming his commitment to transparency, accountability, and transformative progress.

 

“Let us write the next chapter in Ghana’s story — one of promise, transparency, and transformative progress. May God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong,”Mahama declared.