Mr John Mahama, Ghana's president-elect, says there is a difficult task ahead for the country following the outcome of the December 7 elections.

He has thus called on Ghanaians to demonstrate religious faith, particularly through prayers and fasting, to help the nation navigate the challenges ahead.

Mr Mahama explained that the campaign and election period was the easy part; however, the task ahead after he takes office will be more difficult, thus highlighting the need for support.

“The easy part is over – the campaign and the elections were the easier phases. Now the real work begins, so if we prayed and fasted for a successful election, now is the time to pray and fast even more, so that God will elevate our nation and make it the 'Black Star' of Africa again,” he said.

The incoming president made these remarks during an end-of-year sermon on December 31st at an Assemblies of God Church in Tamale.

He also called for collaboration to ensure that the country is governed in the right direction, stating that his party, the NDC, cannot achieve this alone.

Mr Mahama will be sworn into office next week following his landslide victory in the December 7 general elections.