President John Dramani Mahama, at Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary, called for national reflection on the journey since independence. He highlighted the significance of honoring past sacrifices, addressing reliance on foreign aid, and implementing economic policies aimed at self-sufficiency. The President introduced initiatives aimed at enhancing domestic growth and reducing dependence on donor aid, while calling for a renewed commitment to national development.
On Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary, President John Dramani Mahama urged citizens to reflect on the nation’s historical journey since gaining independence. Speaking during the national parade at the Presidency in Accra, he emphasized the significance of this day as an opportunity to remember the struggles for freedom and honor the sacrifices made by national heroes.
President Mahama remarked, “It reinforces our national identity, our unity, and patriotism, while offering a moment for reflection on our progress and the challenges ahead.” He stressed the importance of recounting Ghana’s history to glean lessons essential for future progress and development.
He recalled how Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah envisioned a self-reliant, industrialized Ghana, a vision disrupted by a military coup on February 24, 1966, a tragedy that he described as “the most regrettable and darkest moment in Ghana’s history.” The President indicated that historical documents confirm this coup was orchestrated by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), leading to instability and setbacks in national development.
Reflecting on Independence Days, he noted: “These independence anniversaries must therefore be a moment of reflection, not on what we have done for ourselves, but on how well we have stewarded national assets for those we will hand them over to in the future.” He called for a narrative focused on leveraging opportunities rather than lamenting failures.
Addressing economic challenges, the President acknowledged Ghana’s reliance on imports and foreign aid, stating that dialogues around independence must evolve into decisive actions. He asserted, “The entire efficacy of this reminder lies not in just repeating it, but in our willingness to take decisive action.”
To change Ghana’s path towards self-sufficiency, his administration aims to implement policies grounded in fiscal discipline. The President announced the upcoming 24-hour Economy Programme designed to enhance job creation and productivity. He stated this initiative would reduce reliance on foreign assistance, positioning the economy to achieve sustainable growth.
Moreover, he introduced a $10 billion initiative aimed at developing infrastructure and stimulating local industries, underscoring the belief that true development must originate from domestic efforts rather than external funding. The 68th Independence Day Celebration, themed “Reflect, Review and Reset,” featured former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete as a special guest, along with other dignitaries such as Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and former Presidents Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor.
In summary, President John Dramani Mahama, during Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary, emphasized the need for reflection on the nation’s past struggles, the importance of self-reliance, and the implementation of firm economic policies to achieve independence from foreign aid. He encouraged progressive actions that would foster national unity and economic prosperity, signaling a commitment to guiding Ghana towards a more autonomous future.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
