Addressing the Nation: A Promise of Transparency and Accountability
In a comprehensive address to the nation, the President of Ghana reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability, providing a detailed account of his administration’s achievements and ongoing initiatives across various sectors during the first eight months of his term. He emphasized the significance of the December 7th election as a mandate for change, a departure from the previous administration’s perceived shortcomings, and a call for a government that listens, acts, and cares for its citizens. Acknowledging the weight of the nation’s expectations, he affirmed his determination to revitalize the economy, restore hope, and usher in an era of shared prosperity.
Economic Revitalization and Relief for Ghanaians
The President highlighted his government’s prudent economic management plan, which has led to significant reductions in nuisance taxes, stabilization of the power sector, and a lowering of the exchange rate. These measures, he stated, have eased the burden of doing business, reduced the cost of living, and brought inflation down to a four-year low. He underscored the tangible impact of these policies on the lives of ordinary Ghanaians, citing falling commodity prices and increased business activity as evidence of economic recovery. He also noted the upgrade in Ghana’s credit rating by S&P Global Ratings as a testament to renewed investor confidence in the country’s economic management.
Investing in Education and Empowering the Next Generation
Education, the President emphasized, is central to the national reset agenda. He detailed the implementation of the No-Fee Stress Policy, providing financial relief to first-year tertiary students and paving the way for the broader Student Loan Plus Policy, which aims to ensure access to higher education for all. He also highlighted the Free Tertiary Education Policy for Persons with Disabilities and the establishment of the Ghana National Research Fund, designed to promote innovation and intellectual sovereignty. Further investments in basic education, including increased budgetary allocations for textbooks, reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening the educational system from the ground up.
Strengthening Healthcare and Expanding Access
The President underscored the government’s commitment to improving healthcare by citing a substantial increase in the national health budget and increased funding for the National Health Insurance Scheme. Despite the withdrawal of significant U.S. aid, the government has prioritized domestic resources to maintain essential health programs and is investing heavily in healthcare infrastructure. The ongoing Agenda 111 Hospitals project is under review to determine the best path forward for completion. These initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to ensuring access to affordable and quality healthcare for all citizens.
Promoting Job Creation and a 24-Hour Economy
The President outlined the transformative 24-hour economy initiative, which is aimed at boosting micro, small, and medium enterprises, modernizing agriculture, and creating jobs. He cited examples of key institutions already operating around the clock, including the Ghana Publishing Company, the Passport Office, and the ports of Tema and Takoradi. He also mentioned the Adwumawura Program and the National Apprenticeship Program as initiatives aimed at equipping young Ghanaians with the skills needed for the modern job market. The One Million Coders Program is training individuals for digital jobs and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
Combating Corruption and Recovering State Assets
Addressing concerns about public accountability, the President reassured citizens of his unwavering commitment to recovering looted state resources. He emphasized that the government’s pursuit of justice is guided by due diligence, due process, and fairness. He listed several high-profile corruption cases currently under investigation and prosecution, including the SkyTrain case, the National Service Authority case, and the National Cathedral case. These actions, he affirmed, demonstrate the government’s determination to combat corruption and ensure accountability in public office. He further highlighted efforts to improve internal governance through a new Code of Conduct for Public Officials and a forthcoming anti-corruption strategy. He assured the public that every case of corruption would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.
Protecting the Environment and Natural Resources
The President detailed the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining (galamsey), including the establishment of a national task force, the seizure of equipment, and the arrest of individuals involved in these activities. He highlighted the successful reclamation of nine forest reserves and the ongoing Tree for Life initiative to restore degraded lands. The planned repeal of LI-2462 will formalize the government’s commitment to ending mining in forest reserves, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to environmental protection and sustainable resource management. Furthermore, steps are being taken to track imported excavators and earth-moving equipment to prevent their illegal use in mining operations.
Strengthening Local Governance and Investing in Infrastructure
The government has prioritized fiscal decentralization, ensuring that District Assemblies receive a larger share of their allocated funds to deliver local services. Clear expenditure guidelines have been established to ensure responsible use of these resources, including investments in markets, healthcare facilities, education infrastructure, water supply, and sanitation. The release of statutory funds to key institutions, including the National Health Insurance Fund and the GetFund, further demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting public service delivery. He outlined plans for the Big Push program, a major infrastructure initiative focused on road development, which has been allocated significant funding from oil and gold revenues.
Energy Security and Responsible Resource Management
The President announced the declaration of commerciality for the Eban Akuma oil and gas discoveries, a significant step towards increasing domestic production and enhancing energy security. The approval for the construction of a second gas processing plant will further strengthen Ghana’s energy infrastructure, reducing reliance on imported fuel and creating jobs. He noted the successful aversion of the threatened “dumsor” (power outages) crisis, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for the nation.
Constitutional Review and Security Enhancements
The ongoing work of the Constitutional Review Commission reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s democracy through inclusive dialogue and citizen participation. The allocation of significant resources to retool security agencies underscores the importance of internal security for economic progress. These initiatives, combined with the government’s focus on transparency, accountability, and good governance, aim to build a Ghana that fulfills the hopes and aspirations of its citizens for generations to come.
