The Chairman of the recently concluded National Economic Dialogue, Dr Ishmael Yamson, has commended Ghanaians for setting aside political affiliations and demonstrating true nationalism during the two-day event.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition last Thursday, the former Unilever Ghana boss described the atmosphere as overwhelming, with participants focused solely on finding solutions to Ghana’s economic challenges rather than pushing partisan agendas.

“The people who were there were not there as NDC people or NPP people. People came genuinely to help solve Ghana’s problems,” Dr Yamson emphasised.

“And there were many people I know who are NPP members, but they came with a genuine desire to contribute. That is what Ghana needs.”

Reflecting on the level of commitment displayed, he admitted he was deeply moved.

“I was overwhelmed by the passion that Ghanaians demonstrated in those two days,” he said.

“I was overwhelmed, and I can tell you that I was very humbled by the dialogue and how everything went.”

The National Economic Dialogue, which brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, was aimed at devising actionable strategies to reset Ghana’s struggling economy.

According to Dr. Yamson, the discussions were rich, with participants showing a shared commitment to addressing economic mismanagement, debt sustainability, and the future of state-owned enterprises.

“For the first time in a long while, I saw people who may not agree politically sitting at the same table, exchanging ideas with one goal—to make Ghana better,” he said.

“That, for me, is the kind of nationalism we must cultivate beyond just two days of dialogue. It must be our way of life.”

Dr. Yamson urged leaders to harness the momentum from the dialogue to implement real change.

“This level of nationalism should not end with the dialogue. If we continue on this path, putting Ghana first and working together regardless of party colors, we will begin to see real transformation,” he said.