The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Kwadaso Assembly, Eric Assibey, has underscored the need for Ghana to rely on its human and natural resources to drive socio-economic transformation.

Speaking at the 69th Independence Day celebration held at Ohwimase-Kwadaso M/A School, Mr. Assibey said Ghana is now mature enough to become more self-sufficient.

The event featured a spectacular parade by cadet corps from Yaa Asantewaa Girls' Senior High School, Prempeh College, Methodist Technical Institute and Building and Road Research Institute Training School (BSTI). Their disciplined steps and spirited performances embodied national pride and injected energy into the celebration.

Cultural displays and inspiring poems by pupils from various basic schools within the municipality further enriched the patriotic atmosphere.

In his address, Mr. Assibey highlighted Ghana’s remarkable democratic progress since independence, noting that the theme “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope” resonates strongly with the country’s current aspirations.

He said Ghana’s 69th Independence anniversary should serve as a wake-up call for the country to reduce its reliance on foreign aid and support.

According to him, the country is endowed with abundant natural resources, a vibrant culture, and resilient people, making it well positioned to chart its own path of development.

“As Ghana marks 69 years of independence, it is clear that the nation has outgrown its youthful phase and must now leverage its maturity, vast potential, and collective strength to drive sustainable development and self-reliance,” he said.

Mr. Assibey noted that the administration led by John Dramani Mahama is prioritising local value-added processing of Ghana’s natural resources and products instead of exporting them in their raw state, with the aim of boosting revenue and accelerating national development.

He said this approach aligns with the vision of Ghana’s founding fathers for a self-sufficient nation, describing it as a step in the right direction toward reducing reliance on external support while promoting internal growth and development.

Mr. Assibey encouraged Ghanaians to remain hopeful, stressing that the country will eventually achieve self-sufficiency and development.

He also urged citizens to support local industries, entrepreneurs and initiatives by patronising locally produced goods and services to stimulate economic growth.

The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Member of Parliament for the Kwadaso Constituency, Kingsley Nyarko, and the Municipal Coordinating Director, Mr. Francis Adu-Boateng.

Also present were religious leaders, executives and members of political parties, heads of departments of the Kwadaso Municipal Assembly, and members of the general public.

In his remarks, Prof. Nyarko acknowledged that Ghana has made progress 69 years after independence but said significant challenges remain.

“Our economy is currently characterised by low income, and we must transition to an upper-middle-income status as a country. Achieving this depends on the government in power,” he said.

He emphasised the need for successive governments to build on the development initiatives of previous administrations.

“Chapter Six of the 1992 Constitution outlines the Directive Principles of State Policy. Article 35(7) states that, as far as practicable, a government should continue and execute projects and programmes started by a previous government. It is imperative that we adhere to this provision,” he said.

Prof. Nyarko urged Ghanaians to embrace their civic responsibilities and actively support the government’s efforts to promote national development.

He also called on residents of the Kwadaso Municipality and surrounding communities to embrace the cultural diversity that enriches Ghanaian identity.