On January 7, 2025, Mr. John Dramani Mahama was officially sworn in as the President of Ghana during a grand ceremony at the Black Star Square in Accra.
Thousands of Ghanaians, along with dignitaries from across the world, gathered to witness this momentous occasion, which marks an important chapter in Ghana’s democratic journey.
During his inaugural address, President Mahama shared his vision for the country, touching on key issues that will shape Ghana’s political, social, and economic landscape.
President Mahama’s address emphasises a vision of progress, inclusivity, and transformation, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in Ghana’s development.
Below are 15 significant highlights from his speech:
- Celebrating Ghana’s Democratic Progress
“Thirty-two years ago, on January 7, Ghana made its first and most successful democratic transition… Our nation was returned to a multi-party democracy with a new constitution that went into effect, and the Fourth Republic was officially established.” - Commitment to the People
“It is the people of Ghana that we are elected to serve.” - Reflection on Political Rivalry with Akufo-Addo
“While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect… You have, without exception, been a worthy opponent.” - Acknowledging Dr. Bawumia’s Sportsmanship
“Your sportsmanship in making an early concession eased tensions and contributed to the early conclusion of the electoral contest.” - Global Economic Shifts
“The combined total of the GDP of the BRICS nations… has been consistently increasing, while the G7’s share has been steadily dropping.” - Technological Challenges
“Technologies such as artificial intelligence… open up the potential for national, financial, and personal security issues that we are not yet able to imagine.” - Addressing the Climate Crisis and Future Pandemics
“With the increase of the climate crisis… there’s a greater likelihood for viruses that have been frozen and thought to be extinct… to create another global pandemic.” - Strengthening Public Health Systems
“My government will be working diligently to strengthen our public health systems… so that when—not if—the next pandemic or epidemic occurs, the loss of lives in Ghana will be minimal.” - The Need for a National Reset
“Today should mark the beginning of a new opportunity—an opportunity for us to make a difference in our governance and our economic management.” - Gratitude to Voters
“To the millions of my fellow countrymen and women who joined long queues… your courage to bring change will not go in vain.” - Optimism for Ghana’s Future
“We need a reset with the faith we have in our country and our leadership… because all of us are Ghana. You are Ghana, and I am Ghana.”
- Historic Appointment of Ghana’s First Female Vice President
“With the inauguration of Ghana’s first female vice president, we have turned a significant page in our history.” - Support for Gender Equality
“Nana Jane’s ascension… symbolizes our collective commitment to fostering a nation where gender equality and female representation are cherished and amplified.” - Focus on Four Priority Areas
“We’ll focus our initial efforts on four critical areas: economic restoration, improvement of the business environment, governance and constitutional reforms, and accountability and the fight against corruption.” - Introduction of a 24-Hour Economy
“We envisage an innovative and vibrant 24-hour Ghanaian economy, which will also be anchored in agriculture and agribusiness.”
