During Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary, President John Dramani Mahama urged citizens to reflect on their journey as an independent nation. He emphasized the need for self-reliance and proposed initiatives to strengthen the economy. The commemorative parade highlighted themes of national unity and historical reflection, calling on Ghanaians to learn from the past and take decisive action for a prosperous future.
On the occasion of Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary, President John Dramani Mahama encouraged Ghanaians to reflect on the nation’s journey as an independent entity. During the national parade held at the Presidential forecourt in Accra, he emphasized that the day should commemorate the struggles for freedom and the sacrifices made by early leaders in the pursuit of self-rule.
President Mahama highlighted that such celebrations are vital for reinforcing national identity, unity, and patriotism, offering a moment for introspection regarding Ghana’s progression and the challenges that lie ahead. He noted that recalling the nation’s history allows Ghanaians to extract lessons which can help chart a path for future development.
Reflecting on the impact of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s vision for an industrialized and self-reliant Ghana, President Mahama explained how the coup d’état of February 24, 1966, disrupted this dream and resulted in years of instability. He referenced declassified materials from U.S. archives attributing the coup to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), which he declared as a tragic chapter in Ghana’s history.
The President insisted that independence anniversaries should serve as opportunities for thoughtful evaluation of how national assets are managed for future generations, ensuring that Ghana’s narrative does not become one marred by missed opportunities. He expressed a commitment to providing strong leadership and strategic vision to adjust to the current economic challenges while prioritizing future stability.
In discussing the themes of independence, President Mahama acknowledged the ongoing challenges of reliance on imports and foreign aid as signs of dependency. He asserted that real change requires substantial actions rather than mere rhetoric, emphasizing the need for policies that promote self-reliance and domestic revenue generation to rejuvenate Ghana’s economy.
As part of efforts to overhaul the economic landscape, President Mahama announced the implementation of the 24-hour Economy Programme aimed at expanding job opportunities and productivity while reducing foreign aid dependence. He also mentioned a $10 billion initiative to modernize infrastructure and stimulate local industries, highlighting the importance of fostering development from within.
The 68th Independence Day celebrations, themed “Reflect, Review and Reset,” were attended by esteemed guests, including former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and former Presidents Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor.
In conclusion, President Mahama’s reflections during Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary serve as a clarion call for introspection and action. Emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and economic independence, he advocates for strategic leadership and domestic initiatives to break the cycle of dependency. The call to ‘Reflect, Review and Reset’ encapsulates a vision for a more self-sufficient and prosperous Ghana that honors its history while looking forward to a sustainable future.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
