The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr. Ismael Yamson, delivered a passionate call for a reawakening of Ghana’s economic destiny at The National Economic Dialogue 2025 with a powerful and thought-provoking.
Dr. Yamson began by reflecting on Ghana’s historic journey since gaining independence 68 years ago, invoked the visionary leadership of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, emphasizing that when Nkrumah declared Ghana “free forever”, it was more than just a political statement—it was a bold commitment to economic self-sufficiency and national prosperity.
Dr. Yamson outlined Nkrumah’s ambitious vision of a Ghana that was not only politically independent but also economically empowered.
He highlighted the first republic’s achievements, including the establishment of nearly 400 integrated agricultural and manufacturing ventures, with over 40% situated in rural areas.
This strategic initiative created widespread employment, ensuring that graduates had jobs waiting for them and workers found purpose and security in their labor.
“Unemployment was unknown,” Dr. Yamson noted, “and workers sang ‘work and happiness’ every noon, reflecting the era’s economic vibrancy.”
He painted a picture of a Ghana where poverty, illiteracy, and disease were actively combated, where education was accessible to all children, and where no one had to worry about their basic needs of food, shelter, or work.
However, Dr. Yamson lamented the abrupt end of this golden era following the 1966 coup that ousted Dr. Nkrumah.
He described this moment as the death of the Ghanaian dream, noting that despite the imperfections of Nkrumah’s administration, his government remains Ghana’s best example of real economic transformation and inclusive growth.
“Since that fateful day, Ghana’s economic dream has remained a mirage,” Dr. Yamson remarked solemnly, underscoring the need to revisit and revive the principles of selfless leadership and strategic economic planning that once propelled the nation forward.
The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr. Ismael Yamson, urged policymakers, business leaders, and citizens to reignite the spirit of economic self-reliance and inclusive development during his speech at the National Economic Dialogue 2025
“We must learn from our past, correct our course, and rebuild an economy that truly serves all Ghanaians,” he concluded.
Story by Freedom Lavoe.
