A glance at what every new Ghanaian president says in their first State of the Nation Address
A glance at what every new Ghanaian president says in their first State of the Nation Address
As Ghana’s new president prepares to deliver his maiden State of the Nation Address (SONA), many Ghanaians will be glued to their screens, eager to hear his vision for the country. This speech is more than just a formality; it sets the tone for the administration and gives insight into what citizens can expect in the coming years. But if history is any guide, we already have a fair idea of what he will say.
Looking back at the Fourth Republic, from President John Agyekum Kufuor in 2001 to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in 2017, there are certain recurring themes that each new president has touched on in their first SONA. Here are some of the most common talking points:
- A Grim Picture of the Economy
Every new president comes into office with the daunting task of fixing an economy they claim was mismanaged by their predecessor. Whether it was Kufuor in 2001, Atta Mills in 2009, Mahama in 2013, or Akufo-Addo in 2017, they all painted a bleak picture of the nation’s finances.
Kufuor in 2001 said: “The economy I have inherited is in a poor state. The cash flow situation of the government is extremely precarious.”
Akufo-Addo in 2017: “I inherited a country with a very difficult economic situation. Our economy is in distress.”
Expect the new president to highlight high debt levels, fiscal indiscipline, or an empty state treasury as justification for the tough measures ahead.
- A Call for National Unity
After the heated campaign season, the first SONA often carries a message of unity. Presidents remind Ghanaians that elections are over and it is time to work together as one nation.
Atta Mills in 2009: “I stand before you today as President for all Ghanaians. It is time to put aside our political differences and unite for the common good.”
They pledge to serve all citizens regardless of political affiliation and emphasize the need for collective effort in nation-building.
- Promises of Economic Transformation
Every president arrives with ambitious plans to change the economic landscape.
Kufuor spoke of the ‘Golden Age of Business’: “We shall pursue policies that will lead to an era of wealth creation, where enterprise is encouraged and rewarded.”
Mahama in 2013: “We will focus on infrastructure development and private sector growth to build a stronger economy.”
Expect the new president to introduce his grand vision for the economy, perhaps with a new slogan to capture the national imagination.
- Job Creation for the Youth
Youth unemployment has been a persistent issue, and no new president delivers their first SONA without addressing it.
Akufo-Addo in 2017: “The most pressing problem facing our youth is unemployment. My government will roll out policies that will provide jobs for our young people.”
Expect the new president to announce new policies aimed at tackling unemployment.
- A Commitment to Fighting Corruption
Ghanaians have long been frustrated with corruption, and every new president promises to fight it.
Mills in 2009: “I will lead a transparent government where public resources are used for the benefit of all.”
Akufo-Addo in 2017: “I am determined to protect the public purse. Corruption will not be tolerated in my administration.”
It is almost certain that the new president will declare his determination to eliminate corruption and hold public officials accountable.
- Plans to Improve Education and Healthcare
Education and healthcare are always on the agenda.
Akufo-Addo in 2017: “Free Senior High School (SHS) will be implemented to ensure every Ghanaian child has access to quality education.”
Mahama in 2013: “We will continue to expand healthcare facilities and improve access to quality health services for all.”
The new president will likely introduce new policies aimed at enhancing these critical sectors.
- Infrastructure Development as a Priority
Roads, bridges, railways, and housing projects are always a major talking point. Every new president pledges in their SONA to improve infrastructure, promising to construct more roads, expand electricity access, and modernize urban centres.
Mahama in 2013: “We are committed to an unprecedented expansion of our infrastructure, roads, bridges, and energy supply, to support economic growth.”
Ghanaians can expect fresh commitments to large-scale development projects.
- Ghana’s Role on the Global Stage
New presidents also take the opportunity to outline Ghana’s role in international affairs.
Kufuor in 2001: “Ghana will take its rightful place among the comity of nations, engaging meaningfully with international partners for mutual benefit.”
They reassure Ghanaians that the country will remain respected on the world stage.
- A Call to Hard Work and Patriotism
Lastly, every new president ends their speech with a rallying call for Ghanaians to work hard, be patriotic, and believe in the country’s potential.
Akufo-Addo in 2017: “Let us be citizens, not spectators. Let us all work hard to build the Ghana we dream of.”
It’s a feel-good moment meant to inspire hope and confidence in the new leadership.
As we prepare to listen to the new president’s first SONA, we can expect a mix of these familiar themes. While every administration brings unique policies, history shows that certain messages remain constant. The real question is whether this new leader will deliver on these promises or if, like many before him, they will remain just words on a podium.
By: Ephraim Ofori Numosuor
