In a decisive New Year’s address on January 1, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama declared that Ghana has officially turned a corner, moving from a state of economic distress toward a future defined by “expansion and delivery.” Reflecting on a year of rigorous reforms, the President signaled that 2026 will be the year his administration accelerates its agenda to deepen social protections and modernize the national economy.
*Economic Recovery and Stability▪︎
President Mahama highlighted the dramatic shift in Ghana’s fiscal health over the past 12 months. Inheriting an economy in 2025 marked by high unemployment and eroded public trust, the President noted several key milestones in the recovery process:
Inflation Control: A projected drop from over 23% in late 2024 to a single-digit rate of approximately 5% by the end of 2025.
Currency Strength: Relative stability has returned to the Cedi, positioning it as one of the world’s top-performing currencies.
IMF Exit: Ghana has begun the process of exiting its IMF program, a move the President described as “regaining dignity” and sovereignty as an equal global partner.
Debt Sustainability: Successful renegotiation of debt obligations has ensured long-term fiscal stability without compromising national interests.
Social Protection and Healthcare
The 2026 roadmap prioritizes the well-being of the vulnerable through a series of landmark initiatives:
Universal Health Coverage: The government will operationalize Free Primary Health Care, removing financial barriers to medical attention.
Ghana Medical Trust Fund: New support systems will be established specifically for those battling non-communicable diseases.
Social Housing: In collaboration with the private sector, the administration plans to roll out new housing units to address the national deficit.
Modernization and Sustainability
To ensure Ghana remains competitive in the 21st century, the President outlined shifts in education, energy, and agriculture:
Digital Classrooms: A continued push to digitalize schools to equip students with modern skills.
Green Energy: A commitment to achieving a 30% renewable energy share in the national mix to lower costs and protect the environment.
Commercial Agriculture: Moving beyond subsistence farming, the government will focus on mechanization and value-added processing to turn agriculture into a commercial powerhouse.
Governance and Constitutional Reform On the front of accountability
President Mahama pledged an uncompromising fight against corruption, stating there would be “no sacred cows” regarding the management of public funds. Furthermore, the administration intends to implement the long-awaited recommendations of the Constitutional Review Committee, aimed at strengthening the 1992 Constitution and reinforcing Ghana’s democratic foundations.
The President concluded by urging national unity, asserting that the progress of the last year is proof of the Ghanaian people’s resilience and a precursor to a fairer, more prosperous nation.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
