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President John Dramani Mahama will deliver his first message on the state of the nation tomorrow, during which he is expected to tell Ghanaians and the global community the true state of affairs in all sectors of the economy.
The weaknesses and strengths inherited will inform the responses and measures the President and his government will spell out, with the solutions grounded in what his party has already promised to do in reviving and growing the economy.
As he delivers his first State of the Nation Address, a constitutional requirement that promises to be a defining moment for his historic second-term administration, the Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, hinted last week that President Mahama would major on, and delve deeply into the current economic situation, what his administration inherited and the plans, moving forward to ensure economic revival.
Aside from the economy, insiders suggest that President Mahama would also touch on key sectors, including energy, because there is a deep gap of financial deficit to close, education because a reform is imminent, as well as health care where there will be much to say about the ambitious Agenda 111 of the previous government and infrastructural development, for which the Electronic Transfer Levy was introduced which the President has promised to abolish.
He is also expected to address pressing national issues, such as the recent investigations into alleged corruption and corruption-related cases involving past government officials, unemployment and lingering concerns over electricity supply shortages.
President Mahama is expected to address the challenges of completing infrastructural projects initiated by the previous administration, including the 80 hospitals under Agenda 111. This project, which requires approximately $2 billion to complete, has significant implications for the country's fiscal position.
President Mahama is also likely to discuss the government's ongoing engagements with development partners, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. These discussions are crucial in renegotiating Ghana's existing agreements to align with the country's current needs and aspirations.
The President has emphasised the importance of reviewing and adjusting such agreements to ensure they reflect the realities of today and the vision of his government.
The address, which is in line with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, will be a significant milestone for the Mahama Administration, which assumed office on January 7, 2025.
The 24-Hour Economy is still taking shape as the cornerstone of the administration’s industrialisation agenda. The address is expected to touch on it and explain what has been done to operationalise it and what the fine details are likely to look like.
In the lead-up to the address, the government has announced several key events, including the National Economic Dialogue, scheduled for March 3-4, which will bring together stakeholders to discuss strategies for transforming the economy.
Additionally, the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, will present the government's first budget on March 11 to outline economic policies and specific measures to tackle the nation's economic challenges.
As the nation awaits President Mahama's address, expectations are high. The new government has pledged to tackle economic challenges and improve the lives of citizens.
Many are eager to hear the President's plans for revitalising the economy, creating jobs and addressing poverty.
The issue of illegal mining remains a pressing concern and the government will provide an update and spell out the measures to ensure sustainable development and protect natural resources.
The environmental degradation and economic losses caused by illegal mining have sparked widespread calls for action.
The government's response will be closely watched, as it seeks to balance the need for economic growth with the need for environmental protection.
President Mahama’s government faces significant challenges ahead. Its ability to work with stakeholders, including labour unions, civil society organisations and the private sector, will be crucial in addressing these challenges and driving economic growth.
Building trust and fostering collaboration will be essential in tackling the complex issues facing the nation.
Fortunately, the labour front has accepted a modest pay increase, a move that has been welcomed by many.
This development is significant, as it reflects a willingness by labour leaders to work with the new government to find solutions to the country's economic challenges.
The pay increase, although not much, is seen as a positive step towards addressing the concerns of public sector workers who have been seeking better compensation and working conditions.
As President Mahama prepares to deliver his address, the nation waits with interest.
Many are hopeful that the President's speech will provide a clear vision for the country's future and outline concrete steps towards achieving economic growth, social justice and environmental sustainability.
