President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to transcend political, ethnic, and personal interests for the greater good of the nation, as the country celebrated its 69th Independence Anniversary.
Delivering the national address at the Jubilee House in Accra today, March 6, 2026, the President emphasised that the occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the collective duty to build a prosperous nation.
“As we mark our 69th Independence Anniversary, we do so under the theme ‘Building Prosperity, Inspiring Hope,’” he stated.
“This theme is more than just ceremonial. It represents a covenant between government and the people, a solemn promise that every decision we make, and every policy we implement must foster prosperity and renew hope for every Ghanaian.”
President Mahama reflected on the country’s independence struggle, led by Kwame Nkrumah, which laid the cornerstone for Ghana’s democracy and its pan-African vision.
He recalled Dr. Nkrumah’s historic declaration that “the battle has ended and Ghana, our beloved country, is free forever,” and his profound warning that “the independence of Ghana is meaningless unless it is linked up with the total liberation of the African continent.”
The President commended Ghana’s robust democratic credentials, highlighting a culture of political tolerance and the peaceful transfer of power.
“Our democracy has endured because we have learned to compete without destroying, to disagree without hatred, and to transfer power peacefully,” he said.
He acknowledged the contributions of successive administrations to national development.
“Every administration, regardless of its political inclination, has played its part in building the nation we proudly call Ghana.”
Turning to Ghana’s historic ties with the African diaspora, President Mahama referenced the painful legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.
He noted that the dungeons of Cape Coast and Elmina Castles stand as solemn reminders of the millions of Africans forcibly taken across the Middle Passage.
Yet, he observed, those tragic events also forged resilient communities across the world.
“The remarkable resilience, creativity, and cultural brilliance of the African diaspora continue to influence the world today,” he said.
In a significant announcement, the President revealed that Ghana would soon take steps on the international stage to seek historical justice.
“Later this month, Ghana will submit a motion to the United Nations declaring slavery and the transatlantic slave trade the gravest crime against humanity,” he declared.
According to him, this move aims to strengthen the global campaign for dignity, justice, and restitution.
President Mahama urged citizens to demonstrate patriotism through concrete, everyday actions rather than mere slogans.
“Patriotism should extend beyond slogans. True patriotism must be shown through our everyday actions,” he asserted.
He added that national development is built on a foundation of discipline and integrity.
“Independence granted us freedom, but freedom demands responsibility.”
In his closing remarks, the President stressed the paramount importance of unity.
“Above all, we must place country above party, above tribe, and above personal interest.”
He expressed confidence in Ghana’s future, noting that the nation’s resilience over the past six decades is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people.
“The journey has not always been smooth. We have stumbled and often felt disappointed in ourselves, but we have never given up.”