In a landmark ceremony on Tuesday, Ghana’s president-elect John Mahama was inaugurated in the capital, Accra, before an assembly of 20 regional leaders. The new president pledged to rejuvenate the West African nation, a major gold and cocoa producer, following years of economic challenges.
Mahama, who secured a decisive victory with 56% of the votes in the December 9 presidential election, defeated Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, the candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), who garnered 41%. This victory marked the end of the two-term tenure of outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo.
“Today should mark the opportunity to reset our country,” said the 66-year-old Mahama, adorned in Ghana’s traditional attire, addressing an enthusiastic crowd draped in the green, red, black, and white colors of his National Democratic Congress (NDC) party.
Accra’s iconic Black Star Square was awash with energy, as jubilant supporters waved flags, chanted slogans, and danced to the rhythmic beats of drums and vuvuzelas. The square became a vibrant scene of celebration, embodying the hope and optimism of a nation eager for change.
A Star-Studded Inauguration
The ceremony was graced by prominent African leaders, including Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye, and Kenyan President William Ruto. Other notable attendees included Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traore, Democratic Republic of Congo’s Felix Tshisekedi, and Gabon’s Brice Oligui Nguema. Sierra Leone’s Julius Maada Bio and Guinea’s Mamadi Doumbouya were also present, alongside former leaders and dignitaries.
Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, who made history as Ghana’s first female vice president, was sworn in alongside Mahama, marking a significant step for gender equality in the nation’s leadership.
A New Beginning
Mahama’s return to power follows a tumultuous period under the NPP, which saw Ghana grappling with its worst economic crisis in decades. Under Akufo-Addo’s administration, the nation faced a debt default and sought a $3 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Inflation peaked at a staggering 50% in late 2022, although it has since eased to 23%.
Mahama previously served as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017 but had failed in two attempts to reclaim the presidency. His victory in December’s election reflected widespread calls for change among Ghanaians weary of economic hardship.
“This is the dawn of a new era,” declared Akosua Nyarko, a 28-year-old teacher from Cape Coast, who attended the inauguration. “The energy here is amazing… I’ve never been so proud to be Ghanaian.”
Mohammed Abubakar, a farmer from Tamale in northern Ghana, expressed hope that Mahama would focus on rural development. “Coming here to Accra for this historic event is a dream come true,” he said. “His leadership gives me hope that my children will have a better future.”
Challenges Ahead
Ghana, with a population of 33 million, remains Africa’s top gold exporter and the world’s second-largest cocoa producer. However, the economy remains a pressing concern, with job creation, healthcare improvement, and economic recovery high on Mahama’s agenda.
Supporters like Kwame Ansah, a 34-year-old trader from Kumasi, are optimistic. “I believe he will deliver on his promise to create more jobs and improve healthcare,” Ansah remarked, calling Mahama “a man of the people.”
With a stable political history, Ghana’s two dominant parties, the NPP and NDC, have alternated power since the country embraced multi-party democracy in 1992. Mahama’s victory marks a significant shift, and his leadership will be closely watched as Ghanaians look to the future with renewed hope.
