President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to managing the nation's resources carefully, vowing to avoid wastage in the face of the country’s economic challenges.

Delivering his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of his second term on Thursday, 27th February, before Parliament, President Mahama stated, “I commit to the judicious use of your resources and to eschewing waste and ostentation. We will always endeavour to make the most of the little we have, so that together, we can guarantee a brighter future for our children and our children's children.”

While acknowledging the current economic challenges, President Mahama expressed optimism about Ghana’s potential.

“Though the state of our nation may currently appear bleak, and the task of addressing it may seem daunting, nothing should stop us from achieving our goals once we set our minds to them,” he said.

He called on the nation to come together and push forward in unity. “In one collective effort, we can resolve to make this great nation, which has been bequeathed to us by our forebears, a true success.”

President Mahama also addressed the nation’s economic situation, highlighting that the challenges were not insurmountable.

“Ghana’s economic challenges are not insurmountable; they present the government and the people with the opportunity to innovate, reflect, review, and reset – which is the theme for the commemoration of our 68th Independence Anniversary,” he stated.

The President emphasised the importance of unity, particularly the role of Ghana’s youth in driving change.

“It is said that there is strength in unity. Ghana’s greatest strength lies in its people, its young and energetic youth. If we stand united, we can be more resilient and harness the power of collective action to overcome economic and social challenges”.

He urged every Ghanaian to take responsibility for the country’s progress, regardless of their background or political affiliation.

“Every Ghanaian, regardless of political affiliation, background, or status, has a responsibility to play a key role in nation-building and work towards a complete reset of our country.”

He assured the nation that no one would be left behind in the pursuit of progress. “Let me assure you that we are leaving no one behind as we reset to build the Ghana we want - a Ghana that works for all,” he said.

The President concluded on an optimistic note, invoking the dreams of Ghana’s forebears. “We shall live the dreams of our forebears in our lifetime! And so, my countrymen and women, where despair once existed, hope must radiate, and where the sun appeared to set on our bright prospects as a nation, let a new dawn of enthusiasm and renewal take its place.”

He expressed his hope that, when he stands before Parliament again to present the next State of the Nation Address, it will be filled with evidence of progress.

So, when next I stand before you to present a message on the State of our nation, it will be one brimming with evidence of progress.

The President concluded by thanking Parliament for their attention and calling for continued blessings on the nation. “I thank you, Mr Speaker and Honourable members, for your kind attention. May God Bless Our Homeland, Ghana.”