Highlights of John Mahama’s inaugural speech: A call for national reset and transformation

Newly sworn-in President John Dramani Mahama delivered an impassioned inaugural address at the Black Star Square, outlining his vision for Ghana’s economic revival, inclusivity, and governance reforms.

Mahama’s speech emphasised accountability, innovation, and unity, calling on Ghanaians to join him in a national reset to build a more prosperous and resilient country.

Addressing Ghanaians from all walks of life, Mahama expressed gratitude to voters for their confidence in his leadership, promising that their votes would translate into 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 honouring me. Your courage to bring change will not go in vain,” Mahama said, pledging to make decisions that will positively impact the destiny of the nation.

He assured Ghanaians that he would govern with sound judgment and take responsibility for addressing the challenges facing the country. “I will have the humility to take responsibility for any challenges and be willing to ask for help in resolving them,” he noted.

Economic recovery at the core

Mahama outlined four key areas his administration will prioritise:

1. Economic restoration and stabilisation
2. Improvement of the business and investment environment
3. Governance and constitutional reforms
4. Accountability and the fight against corruption

He assured businesses and investors that Ghana is open for business again, promising a more transparent and fair tax regime to stimulate growth.

“We will rationalise our tax systems to make them fair and transparent. The business community must know that Ghana is back in business,” he declared.

Call for a national reset

Mahama stressed the need for a national reset to restore faith in Ghana’s institutions and leadership.

“We need a reset of faith — in our country, in our institutions, and in ourselves,” he said. “You are Ghana, I am Ghana. Together, we make this country. Let us enter into a covenant to build the Ghana we all desire.”

He called on citizens to envision the Ghana they want to leave behind for future generations, urging a shift in attitudes, behaviours, and mindsets to achieve collective progress.

Empowering youth and women

The President paid special attention to youth and women, promising policies that will foster job creation and inclusivity.

“Our youth represent the heartbeat of our democracy. Their ambitions will drive our policies,” Mahama said, pledging to implement a 24-hour economy model to create jobs and stimulate local industries.

He also celebrated Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s historic achievement as Ghana’s first female vice president, describing her inauguration as a symbol of progress toward gender equality.

“With Nana Jane by my side, we are committed to creating a society where barriers are shattered, and ambitions are realised,” he said. “We will implement policies that empower women and ensure opportunities are open to all, regardless of background.”

A 24-hour economy

Mahama introduced the concept of a 24-hour economy, aimed at unlocking Ghana’s dormant economic potential by keeping markets, public services, and businesses operational round-the-clock.

“This model will create decent jobs for young people, stimulate local industry, attract foreign investments, and foster resilient communities,” Mahama explained.

He painted a vision of bustling markets, flexible business hours, and responsive public services operating at all times to meet citizens’ diverse needs.

Commitment to diversity and inclusivity

Mahama pledged that his administration would champion diversity in governance, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, or religion, has a role to play in the nation’s progress.

“Our decisions will prioritise inclusivity, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table,” he stated. “We will create an equitable society where opportunities are open to all.”

Message to the business community

He invited business leaders and entrepreneurs to support his vision, highlighting the private sector’s critical role in Ghana’s growth.

“Your innovation and dedication will be the backbone of our success story,” Mahama said. He reassured the business community that his administration would work to foster a business-friendly environment and promote public-private partnerships.

Regional cooperation and international partnerships

Mahama expressed his commitment to strengthening Ghana’s ties with neighbouring countries and working collectively toward regional stability and economic growth.

“To our friends from across Africa and the world, I say ‘Akwaaba!’ Your presence is a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation that exist between our nations,” he said.

A call to action for Ghanaians

Mahama ended his speech with a patriotic call to action, inviting Ghanaians to partner with his administration in building a better future.

“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 fabric of our nation,” he said.

The President concluded by invoking God’s blessings on Ghana and reiterating 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.

The post Highlights of John Mahama’s inaugural speech: A call for national reset and transformation first appeared on 3News.

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