We Need Actions For Economic Independence Not Africa Beyond Aid Rhetoric- Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has stated that Ghana and the entire Africa need decisive actions for economic independence years after gaining political independence.
Without the needed actions, he said ‘Africa Beyond Aid’ becomes mere rhetoric.
He observes that over time, the statement has become a cliché without any efficacy and sense of action for Ghanaians and Africans at large.
“Discussions about our independence often highlight our reliance on imports, donor aid and IMF bailouts as signs of continued dependence. This reminder is repeated so often that while undeniably real, it risks becoming cliche yet the entire efficacy of this reminder lies not in just repeating it but in our willingness to take decisive actions.
“Actions that will break the chains of dependency not just an empty rhetoric of an Africa beyond aid. Proclaiming self-reliance which marching to the donors into the hands of the donor agencies begging bowl-in-hand is really meaningless.”
Speaking at the country’s 68th Independence Day Celebration on March 5, 2025, the President said he was putting in place the needed policies and urged Ghanaian youth to embrace the occasion for the needed transformation.
“This is a defining moment but policies alone no matter how well-carved and how well-intentioned will not change our reality. Action will change that reality. As President, I’m taking the necessary action to create growth opportunities and enhance our economic independence. Young Ghanaians must step up to the plate, seize these opportunities and contribute to building a self-sufficient nation. Ghana’s economic future is in your hands.”
Policies
The President said his government was formulating policies based on fiscal discipline.
“We are striving to expand our economy to yield prosperity for all and to do this, we must look within and make sure that we are raising revenue domestically.”
Among his policies, he said were the 24-hour economy programme to create jobs, boost productivity, and increase our export capacity; the US$10 billion Big Push Initiative to ensure that development is driven from within rather than funded from outside; and Agriculture for Development transformation agenda to stabilize food prices.
He also outlined the Poultry Farm to Table Initiative to address 95% dependence on imported Poultry products; the AgriNext Programme; and the Farmer Service Centres to provide access to modern farming tools, quality seeds, and fertilisers.
Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini
