President John Dramani Mahama called for reflection on Ghana’s journey during the country’s 68th Independence Anniversary. He emphasized the need to recognize past sacrifices, enhance self-reliance, and implement economic policies that foster growth. His administration is committed to reducing dependence on foreign aid through strategic initiatives aimed at revitalizing the economy and modernizing infrastructure.
On Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary, President John Dramani Mahama urged citizens to reflect on the nation’s progress as an independent country. During the national parade held in Accra, he emphasized that this celebration should serve as a reminder of the struggle for freedom and the sacrifices made by Ghana’s forebears.
President Mahama stated, “It reinforces our national identity, our unity, and patriotism, while offering a moment for reflection on our progress and the challenges ahead.” He encouraged Ghanaians to consider the lessons learned from history to forge a path towards future development.
The President recalled the vision of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah for a self-reliant Ghana, which was interrupted by a coup d’état on February 24, 1966, leading to years of instability. He referred to this as a significant setback in Ghana’s aspiration for nationhood, noting that the truth about the coup is highlighted in U.S. classified documents revealing CIA involvement.
Reflecting on the importance of Independence Day, President Mahama stated, “These independence anniversaries must therefore be a moment of reflection… Our story cannot be one of missed opportunities.” He expressed his commitment to providing leadership to navigate the current economic challenges.
The President criticized Ghana’s ongoing reliance on imports, donor aid, and International Monetary Fund bailouts, underscoring the need for decisive actions to break this dependency. He asserted that merely talking about self-reliance while seeking external support is ineffective.
To mitigate economic dependency, Mahama mentioned that his administration is advocating for fiscal discipline and domestic revenue generation. He highlighted the initiation of the 24-hour Economy Programme, aimed at revitalizing the economy, creating jobs, and reducing reliance on foreign aid.
Furthermore, he introduced the $10 billion big push initiative, designed to modernize infrastructure and stimulate local industries. The Independence Day parade, themed “Reflect, Review and Reset,” featured former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete as the special guest, alongside notable Ghanaian dignitaries.
In conclusion, President John Dramani Mahama’s address during Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary called for introspection on the nation’s journey since its liberation. He highlighted the need for self-reliance and domestic economic growth while reflecting on historical challenges. Through strategic initiatives, his administration aims to foster economic independence and prepare for future generations, emphasizing the importance of learning from the past to create a prosperous future.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
