Accra, Ghana – President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, has criticized the contradiction between proclaiming self-reliance and continuously seeking donor assistance, stating that “proclaiming self-reliance while marching straight back to the donors, into the hands of the donor agencies, begging bowl in hand, is really meaningless.”
Speaking during his Independence Day address at the Jubilee House, President Mahama highlighted the persistent dependence of Ghana—and, to some extent, Africa—on external financial support.
He expressed concern that discussions about Ghana’s independence often revolve around the country’s reliance on imports, donor aid, and IMF bailouts, which he believes have become a cliché.
“Discussions about our independence often highlight our reliance on imports, on donor aid, and IMF bailouts as signs of continued dependence. This reminder is repeated so often that while undeniably real, it wreaks becoming a cliché,” he noted.
He emphasized that merely acknowledging this dependence is not enough, stating that the true effectiveness of such reminders lies in taking decisive steps toward breaking the cycle of dependency.
“Yet the entire efficacy of this reminder lies not in just repeating it but in our willingness to take decisive action, actions that will break the chain of dependency, not just the empty rhetoric of an Africa that is beyond aid,” he added.
In a bid to cut costs, Ghana’s 68th Independence celebration was moved from the traditional Independence Square to the forecourt of the Presidency.
Under the previous NPP administration, the celebration had been rotated among different regions, but President Mahama has suspended this practice as part of measures to reduce government spending.
The President assured Ghanaians that his administration is committed to providing strong leadership and a clear vision to navigate the country’s economic challenges while ensuring long-term stability.
“As President, I am committed to providing the bold leadership and the clarity of vision that is needed to navigate the turbulent economic waters we are sailing in currently while safeguarding our future,” he declared.
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh (#RomeoWrites
) / Ahotoronline.com | Ghana 
