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Highlights of President Akufo-Addo’s Final State of the Nation Address
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo delivered his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) on January 3, 2025, marking the conclusion of his eight-year tenure. In his speech, the President reflected on key achievements, challenges, and aspirations for Ghana’s future.
Here are the top 20 highlights from his address:
1. Service and Vision
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President Akufo-Addo described his presidency as the “greatest honour” of his life, reaffirming his vision for a self-reliant, prosperous, and united Ghana.
2. National Security
He praised Ghana’s security forces for maintaining the country’s peace and stability, stating that Ghana remains the only country in the region unaffected by terrorist violence.
3. Chieftaincy Conflicts
While celebrating the resolution of the Dagbon crisis as a major success, he expressed regret over the unresolved conflict in Bawku, urging stronger efforts to address it.
4. Galamsey Fight
The president reaffirmed his commitment to fighting illegal mining, declaring that he was prepared to risk his presidency to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
5. Gold Industry Leadership
Under his administration, Ghana became Africa’s leading gold producer, surpassing South Africa, with advancements in refining and value addition.
6. Free SHS and TVET
He highlighted the transformational impact of Free Senior High School and Free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), which provided access to secondary education for 5.7 million students.
7. STEM Development
The government established 20 STEM centres, 10 model STEM senior high schools, and 186 science laboratories to foster innovation.
8. COVID-19 Response
The President lauded Ghana’s pandemic response, noting early vaccine access and the establishment of a vaccine manufacturing facility.
9. Agenda 111 Hospitals
Though only three hospitals have been completed, he urged the incoming administration to continue the ambitious healthcare initiative aimed at building 101 district hospitals.
10. Economic Recovery
President Akufo-Addo announced a 7.2% GDP growth in Q3 2024, declaring the economic crisis over and recovery faster than projected.
11. Debt Restructuring
Acknowledging the painful domestic debt restructuring, he highlighted its necessity for stabilising the economy and ensuring sustainable growth.
12. Energy Sector Transformation
He celebrated the end of “dumsor” (erratic power supply) and the stabilisation of energy sector debt, leaving office “with the lights on.”
13. Infrastructure Milestones
The government constructed over 12,000 kilometres of roads and several interchanges, marking the most extensive road development in Ghana’s history.
14. Youth Empowerment
Initiatives like the National Entrepreneurship and Innovations Programme (NEIP) supported 1.6 million Ghanaians and created over 100,000 jobs.
15. Agricultural Growth
Maize production surged by 110%, and the Living Income Differential policy secured better cocoa prices for farmers.
16. Maritime Expansion
The Takoradi Harbour was transformed into a world-class facility with the commissioning of an oil and gas services terminal in 2024.
17. Digital Transformation
Ghana became a leader in digital innovation through initiatives like the Ghana Card and mobile money interoperability.
18. Tourism Growth
The Year of Return and Beyond the Return initiatives attracted over 1.5 million visitors, strengthening ties with the diaspora and boosting the economy.
19. Anti-Corruption Measures
The President noted reforms, including the establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor, which protected depositors and strengthened financial integrity.
20. Legacy and Optimism
Reflecting on his presidency, he said, “I leave behind a Ghana that is safe, secure, united, and rooted in democratic principles.”
In closing, President Akufo-Addo congratulated President-elect John Dramani Mahama and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, voicing optimism about Ghana’s future. “Together, we have laid the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future,” he concluded.
