President John Dramani Mahama is set to deliver his inaugural State of the Nation Address today, Thursday, February 27, 2025.
During his speech, he is expected to provide a comprehensive update on the country’s current economic situation, outlining both the strengths and challenges inherited by his administration.
His address will also detail strategies his government intends to implement, aligned with his party’s commitments to economic recovery and growth.
As a constitutionally mandated event, this address marks a significant moment in Mahama’s historic second term. Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, indicated last week that the President’s remarks will focus extensively on the economy, the financial constraints inherited, and the roadmap for restoring stability.
Beyond the economy, President Mahama is also expected to highlight pressing national concerns, including energy sector deficits, ongoing education reforms, and the future of the ambitious Agenda 111 hospital project initiated by the previous administration.
His speech will address funding gaps in infrastructure development, particularly in relation to the Electronic Transfer Levy, which his government has pledged to abolish.
Additionally, Mahama will discuss key national matters such as ongoing investigations into corruption allegations involving former government officials, rising unemployment, and persistent electricity shortages.
The completion of the 80 hospitals under the Agenda 111 initiative—requiring an estimated $2 billion—remains a major concern due to its fiscal implications.
His address is also expected to touch on Ghana’s negotiations with international development partners, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. The government aims to review existing agreements to ensure they align with national priorities and the administration’s economic vision.
A key highlight of the address will be the progress and implementation of the 24-Hour Economy, a flagship initiative of the administration aimed at driving industrialisation. Mahama is anticipated to elaborate on its current status and the next steps for its full operationalisation.
In the lead-up to the address, the government has scheduled several key events, including the National Economic Dialogue on March 3-4, bringing together stakeholders to discuss economic transformation strategies. Additionally, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson will present the government’s first budget on March 11, detailing policies to address economic challenges.
As anticipation builds, Ghanaians are eager to hear the President’s vision for tackling economic hardships, job creation, and poverty reduction. The issue of illegal mining, a long-standing concern due to its environmental and economic consequences, is also expected to feature prominently. The government’s response to balancing environmental sustainability with economic growth will be closely monitored.
Mahama’s address will be a defining moment, as it sets the tone for his administration’s governance and economic policies in the years ahead.
