In his final State of the Nation Address (SONA 2025) on January 3rd, President Nana Akufo-Addo reflected on his administration’s achievements and shared his vision for Ghana’s future. The address, delivered to Parliament, covered a range of topics including economic growth, education, infrastructure, and more.

SONA 2025: Economic Achievements

President Akufo-Addo highlighted the impressive growth of Ghana’s economy during his tenure. He noted that the country’s growth rate is projected to reach 6.7% this year, a significant improvement from the 3.4% growth rate his administration inherited in 2017. Additionally, he emphasized that Ghana’s gross international reserves have increased to almost $8 billion, surpassing the $6.2 billion inherited in 2017.

The President attributed this growth to various economic policies and initiatives aimed at boosting productivity and fostering an environment conducive to business. He mentioned that the government has focused on sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on traditional exports.

SONA 2025: Education Initiatives

One of the key achievements highlighted by the President was the impact of the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme. This initiative has provided education for over five million students who otherwise might not have had the opportunity. President Akufo-Addo also noted strides in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), citing the retooling of existing institutions and the establishment of 35 new ones to equip young people with essential skills.

The President underscored the importance of education in driving socio-economic development, stating that a well-educated population is crucial for the nation’s progress. He emphasized that his administration has prioritized investment in education infrastructure, teacher training, and curriculum development to ensure a high standard of education.

SONA 2025: Infrastructure Development

The President outlined various infrastructure projects that have been pivotal in stimulating economic growth and improving the quality of life for Ghanaians. These projects include the construction of roads, bridges, and hospitals. Additionally, efforts to improve the energy sector have ensured a stable and reliable power supply, which is crucial for the growth of industries and businesses.

Key infrastructure projects mentioned in the address include the completion of major highways connecting different regions of the country, the expansion of the port facilities to boost trade, and the development of new healthcare facilities to enhance access to medical services. These projects have not only created jobs but also enhanced connectivity and accessibility across the country.

SONA 2025: Debt Management and Fiscal Discipline

Addressing criticisms of economic mismanagement, President Akufo-Addo defended his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline. He announced that the government has begun repaying some of its debts, including honoring coupon payments to EuroBond holders. This move is seen as a step towards stabilizing the country’s financial standing and restoring investor confidence.

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The President highlighted several measures undertaken to manage the nation’s debt. These include restructuring existing debts to make them more manageable and ensuring that new borrowing is directed towards high-impact projects that can generate revenue and drive economic growth. By prioritizing fiscal discipline, the government aims to create a sustainable financial environment for future administrations.

SONA 2025: Health Sector Improvements

President Akufo-Addo also touched on the strides made in the health sector. He highlighted the implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) reforms, which have improved access to healthcare services for millions of Ghanaians. The President mentioned that new hospitals and clinics have been built, and existing ones have been upgraded to provide better healthcare services.

The President praised the efforts of healthcare workers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasized the government’s commitment to improving their working conditions. He also noted the increase in the number of healthcare professionals trained and recruited to address the shortage of medical personnel.

SONA 2025: Challenges and Criticisms

Despite the President’s optimistic outlook, his claims have faced criticism from observers and opposition parties. Critics argue that the restructuring of debts and the need for an IMF bailout indicate underlying financial challenges. Economist Alfred Appiah pointed out that the country’s inability to pay its debts raises questions about the true state of Ghana’s economy.

Opposition leaders have also voiced concerns about the rising cost of living and unemployment rates. They argue that while the government’s initiatives have led to macroeconomic improvements, the benefits have not yet trickled down to ordinary citizens. This disconnect has led to calls for more inclusive policies that address the immediate needs of Ghanaians.

Personal Reflections

In a heartfelt moment, President Akufo-Addo expressed his gratitude to Ghanaians for granting him the opportunity to serve as President over the past eight years. He described it as the greatest honor of his life and reflected on the progress made during his tenure. The President also pledged to continue supporting Ghana’s progress even after his presidency.

Final Thoughts

President Akufo-Addo’s final SONA has sparked a debate about Ghana’s economic health and future trajectory. While he insists that the country is not broke and is leaving behind robust financial reserves, critics remain skeptical. The President’s focus on economic growth, debt management, and infrastructure development underscores his administration’s efforts to build a resilient economy.

As Ghana navigates its economic challenges, the focus will be on maintaining fiscal discipline and fostering sustainable growth. The incoming administration will have the task of building on the foundations laid by President Akufo-Addo’s government and addressing the concerns raised by critics. The true impact of these policies will unfold in the years to come, shaping the economic future of Ghana.

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