President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to unite behind a renewed national vision aimed at building prosperity, restoring hope, and strengthening the country’s democratic and economic foundations.
Delivering his address at the 69th Independence Day celebration on March 6, 2026, the President said Ghana’s independence must continue to inspire responsibility, discipline and collective action toward national development.
Speaking under the theme “Building Prosperity, Inspiring Hope,” President Mahama described the occasion as more than a ceremonial event, stressing that it represents a commitment between government and citizens to pursue policies that improve the lives of all Ghanaians.
“Every decision we make and every policy we implement must foster prosperity and renew hope for every Ghanaian,” he said.
Honouring Ghana’s Founding Leaders
Reflecting on Ghana’s history, the President paid tribute to the country’s founding leader, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who led the nation to independence from Britain on March 6, 1957, making Ghana the first sub-Saharan African country to achieve independence from colonial rule.
He noted that Nkrumah’s declaration that Ghana’s independence would be meaningless without the liberation of the entire African continent continues to shape the nation’s role in promoting African unity.
President Mahama also acknowledged the contributions of past leaders including Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia, J.A. Ankrah, Akwasi Afrifa, I.K. Acheampong, General Fred Akuffo, Jerry John Rawlings, John Agyekum Kufuor, John Evans Atta Mills and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, saying each administration has played a role in building the Ghana of today.
“Our democracy has endured because we have learned to compete without destroying, to disagree without hatred and to transfer power peacefully,” he stated.
Strengthening Ghana’s Economy
Touching on the economy, President Mahama said his administration has taken steps to stabilise the economy, restore investor confidence and strengthen fiscal discipline.
According to him, inflation is gradually declining, the local currency is stabilising and confidence in the economy is improving following efforts to renegotiate debt and redirect national resources toward key sectors such as health, education, agriculture and job creation.
However, he stressed that economic recovery must be accompanied by a renewed commitment to integrity and accountability in public life.
“Corruption erodes the very foundation of our nation. Every cedi stolen from the public purse is a classroom without textbooks, a hospital without medicines and an opportunity denied to a young graduate,” he said.
24-Hour Economy Law Signed
The President also announced that he has assented to the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, which has now become law.
He explained that the initiative is expected to boost productivity by encouraging businesses and factories to operate in multiple shifts while improving access to services across the country.
The policy, he said, will create thousands of jobs in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, security and transportation, positioning Ghana as a competitive industrial hub.
Women’s Development Bank Nears Completion
President Mahama further revealed that government is in the final stages of establishing a Women’s Development Bank, aimed at providing accessible financing and business support for women entrepreneurs.
He noted that the initiative, led by Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, will help address long-standing barriers that prevent many women from accessing affordable credit.
“When women succeed, families thrive and nations prosper,” he said.
Call to the Youth
Addressing the youth, the President encouraged young people to harness technology and innovation to drive Ghana’s development.
He said government is investing in digital infrastructure, entrepreneurship programmes and innovation hubs across the country while expanding internship and apprenticeship programmes to bridge the gap between education and employment.
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it,” he told young Ghanaians.
Ghana’s Role in Africa and the Diaspora
President Mahama also highlighted Ghana’s continued commitment to African unity and global justice, revealing that the country will soon submit a motion to the United Nations calling for the recognition of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity.
He noted that the move is part of broader efforts to pursue historical justice and strengthen ties with the African diaspora.
Renewing the National Vision
As Ghana approaches its 70th Independence Anniversary next year, President Mahama called on citizens to work together toward a shared vision of a country where opportunities are based on merit, economic growth benefits all, and national resources are managed responsibly.
“Ghana’s progress cannot rely solely on the leadership of government. It will depend on every citizen doing their part with excellence,” he said.
He concluded by urging Ghanaians to remain united and committed to national development.
“May God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong. Long live Ghana and long live African unity.”