President John Dramani Mahama has outlined an ambitious vision for Ghana in 2026, declaring that the achievements of the past year represent only the foundation for a broader national transformation.
In his New Year address, the President said the focus of his administration in the coming year will be to accelerate and expand reforms across education, health, agriculture, energy, governance and social cohesion, with the aim of delivering tangible improvements in the lives of all Ghanaians.
Addressing the nation, President Mahama acknowledged the progress recorded in 2025 but stressed that it marked the beginning rather than the destination of the Reset Agenda.
He described the past year as one of rebuilding confidence and stabilising the economy, adding that the task ahead now requires deliberate expansion of policies that strengthen institutions and widen opportunities.
According to him, the architecture of the Ghana citizens aspire to must now be built on the foundation laid through sacrifice and reform.
“In 2026 we shall accelerate and expand. Every child deserves a world-class education.We’ll continue digitalising our schools and ensure every classroom has the tools for 21st century learning”
HE President John Dramani Mahama
By modernising teaching methods and expanding access to technology, the administration hopes to prepare young people for a competitive global economy driven by innovation and skills.
Targeting Universal Health Coverage
In the health sector, President Mahama announced that the government will move to operationalise universal health coverage through a free primary health care programme. He said this initiative is designed to ensure that no Ghanaian is denied basic medical care because of financial constraints.
Complementing this policy, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund will be used to support citizens suffering from non communicable diseases, extending social protection to families facing long term health challenges.
Agriculture, the President said, remains central to Ghana’s development strategy. He outlined plans to make the country food self sufficient by transforming agriculture from subsistence activity into a thriving commercial sector.
This transformation, he explained, will be driven by mechanisation, value addition and improved access to markets. By strengthening the agricultural value chain, the government aims to increase productivity, raise incomes and reduce reliance on food imports.
On housing, the President said the government will deliver social housing through public private partnerships, addressing the persistent housing deficit and supporting urban development.
He emphasised that such partnerships will leverage private sector expertise and capital while ensuring affordability for ordinary citizens.
Accountability at the Heart of Good Governance
Governance and accountability formed a central theme of the address. President Mahama reiterated his administration’s commitment to intensifying the fight against corruption, stressing that there will be no sacred cows. He said every cedi of public funds belongs to the people and must be fully accounted for.
As part of institutional reforms, the government plans to implement the recommendations of the Constitutional Review Committee, with the aim of strengthening the 1992 Constitution and consolidating Ghana’s democratic gains.
Calls for Broader Cooperation
The President was clear that government alone cannot build the nation. He called for broad cooperation from citizens and institutions as Ghana enters 2026.
“As we enter 2026, I call upon each one of you—first our young people. You are not the leaders of tomorrow; you are the leaders of today. Take ownership of this Reset Agenda. Innovate, create, and build. Ghana needs your energy and your ideas and your commitment.”
HE President John Dramani Mahama
To entrepreneurs and business leaders, President Mahama appealed for increased investment in Ghana, pledging that the government will maintain a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
He urged the private sector to seize emerging opportunities and create jobs that support inclusive growth. He said a strong partnership between government and business is essential for sustainable development.
The President also acknowledged the role of civil society, the media and watchdog institutions, encouraging them to continue holding government accountable.
He said a vibrant democracy depends on critical voices and constructive scrutiny, even where disagreements arise. Respect for these institutions, he noted, strengthens governance and builds public trust.
Traditional leaders and faith based communities were recognised as custodians of Ghana’s values and anchors of social cohesion. President Mahama called on them to help nurture national unity and reinforce the moral fabric of society.
He also addressed public servants, describing their work as a noble calling and urging them to serve with integrity, efficiency and dedication, since public trust in government depends on their daily conduct.
Turning to the diaspora, the President described Ghanaians abroad as the country’s global ambassadors. He encouraged them to continue contributing to national development by bringing home skills, resources and networks when possible. He said Ghana needs the diaspora as an integral part of its shared destiny.
Ending Divisive Politics, Embracing Unity
In a strong appeal for unity, President Mahama rejected partisan divisions, stating that there is only one Ghana. He urged citizens to move beyond political labels and embrace patriotism rooted in nation building.
He called for respectful disagreement, healthy competition of ideas and an end to needless conflict that distracts from urgent national priorities.
Looking ahead, the President painted a vision of a Ghana where opportunity is widely shared, merit is rewarded and integrity is celebrated.
He spoke of a future in which young people can build prosperous lives at home, senior citizens live with dignity and vulnerable groups are protected.
He said Ghana can become a respected leader on the global stage, known for democratic quality, economic vitality and the character of its people.
President Mahama concluded by expressing confidence that this vision is achievable. He urged Ghanaians to move forward together with determination and faith, building on the foundation already laid.
As the nation enters 2026, he said, the task is to work harder, dream bigger and prove that the promise of Ghana is not merely an ideal but a destiny within reach.
