Continuity of governance key to Ghana’s progress – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has emphasised the importance of continuity in governance, stating that every administration since independence has played a critical role in shaping modern Ghana.

Speaking at the country’s 69th Independence Day celebration on March 6, the President said Ghana’s development is the cumulative result of successive governments that have contributed to building the nation’s democratic and economic foundations.

The national celebration, held under the theme “Building Prosperity, Inspiring Hope,” featured military drills and ceremonial displays marking Ghana’s independence from British colonial rule in 1957.

Addressing the gathering, President Mahama described the anniversary as a moment for reflection and renewal of national purpose.

“On this sacred day, we gather once again to commemorate the freedom our forebears won for us 69 years ago,” he said, adding that Ghanaians must see themselves not only as witnesses to history but as “guardians of a legacy and architects of our shared destiny.”

He said the Independence theme represents more than a ceremonial slogan, describing it as a covenant between the government and the people.

According to him, every policy and decision by government must aim at fostering prosperity and restoring hope among citizens.

The President referenced his recent State of the Nation Address delivered to Parliament, noting that his administration had spoken frankly about Ghana’s challenges while outlining steps toward recovery and progress.

Mahama said the Independence Day message was directed not only to political leaders but to ordinary Ghanaians across the country — including farmers, traders, teachers, nurses and young entrepreneurs — as well as citizens living in the diaspora.

Reflecting on Ghana’s history, he paid tribute to the country’s founding leader, Kwame Nkrumah, who declared Ghana’s independence on March 6, 1957.

The President noted that Nkrumah’s vision extended beyond Ghana’s freedom to the total liberation of Africa.

“Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah awakened within us a sense of national consciousness and continental purpose,” he said.

Mahama also acknowledged the contributions of political leaders who governed the country after independence, stressing that Ghana’s democratic stability is rooted in the collective efforts of successive administrations.

“Our democracy has endured because we have learned to compete without destroying, disagree without hatred, and transfer power peacefully,” he said, describing this as evidence of the maturity and wisdom of the Ghanaian people.

The President further highlighted Ghana’s historical ties with the African diaspora, welcoming the presence of Terrance Drew, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, whose visit he said symbolised a reconnection between Africa and the Caribbean.

He recalled the painful history of the transatlantic slave trade, referencing the slave dungeons at Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, which served as departure points for millions of Africans taken across the Atlantic.

Despite that tragic past, Mahama said the resilience and cultural influence of Africans in the diaspora remain a powerful legacy.

In a significant diplomatic move, the President announced that Ghana will later this month submit a motion at the United Nations seeking recognition of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity.

According to him, the motion is aimed at advancing global conversations on historical justice and restitution for affected communities.

“Ghana, the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence, will once again lead the global call for dignity and restoration,” he said.

The Independence Day celebration serves as a national moment for Ghanaians to reaffirm their patriotism and reflect on the country’s journey since breaking free from British colonial rule nearly seven decades ago.

 

 

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