In his final State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo reflected on his eight-year tenure, asserting that he is leaving behind a Ghana that is safe, secure, and anchored in democratic principles.
Highlighting progress across various sectors, he expressed optimism about the nation’s future and its continued growth as a beacon of peace and stability in Africa.
Economic growth and fiscal responsibility
President Akufo-Addo emphasized the economy’s recovery post-COVID-19, citing consistent growth rates of 4.8%, 7%, and 7.2% in the first three quarters of 2024, with an annual projection of 6.3%.
He dismissed claims of an economic crisis, noting improvements in the trade balance, which now boasts a surplus of $3.85 billion compared to a $1.8 billion deficit in 2016.
The President highlighted the reduction of financial irregularities by GH₵5.2 billion in 2023, a 32% drop from the previous year, attributed to strengthened anti-corruption measures, including the elevation of corruption to a felony with harsher penalties.
Transforming agriculture
Under his administration, agriculture experienced significant growth, with maize production rising by 110%, rice by 48%, and soybean by 150% between 2017 and 2023.
Key achievements included the distribution of 2.7 million bags of fertilizer, the establishment of 140 mechanization centers, and the rehabilitation of irrigation schemes.
Cocoa productivity increased from 450kg to 800kg per hectare, solidifying Ghana’s leadership in sustainable cocoa production. Agricultural GDP grew from 2.7% in 2016 to an average of 5.7% in 2023.
Infrastructure and housing developments
President Akufo-Addo underscored infrastructure achievements, including the construction and rehabilitation of over 12,000 kilometers of roads.
On housing, 1,072 affordable homes were completed, with 800 more underway in Kpone.
Initiatives such as the National Homeownership Fund and the Bungalow Redevelopment Programme delivered homes for public servants and security personnel.
Education and youth development
The flagship Free Senior High School (SHS) policy provided access to education for 5.7 million youth. Investments in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education aimed to equip Ghanaian youth with skills for modern industries.
A legacy of stability and progress
President Akufo-Addo concluded by reaffirming his belief in Ghana’s resilience and capacity for continued growth.
He credited his administration for strengthening democratic principles, ensuring accountability, and modernizing various sectors to position Ghana as a leader in Africa.
“I take my final bow in the certain knowledge that our nation will grow from strength to strength,” he declared, leaving office with a vision of a prosperous and united Ghana.
