Written by: Badr Ahmed

The Ghanaian president stressed the importance of strengthening the path of democratic governance, expanding citizen participation in decision-making, and building a development model based on national capabilities and institutions, emphasizing the need to rely more on local capabilities to achieve sustainable development.

Ghana's president calls for a new alliance between the state and civil society to drive development.

President Mahama’s remarks came during his participation in the fourth annual Civil Society Forum in Ghana, where he reviewed the country’s democratic journey since the launch of the Fourth Republic, considering that Ghana has achieved important accomplishments in consolidating democracy, including the peaceful transfer of power, strengthening the power of democratic institutions, the flourishing of the media landscape, and the growing participation of citizens in public affairs.

The Ghanaian president pointed out that the success of democracy is not measured only by holding periodic elections, but also by the extent to which citizens feel that their voices are heard, the ability of institutions to adhere to the principles of transparency and accountability, the responsiveness of government policies to the needs of citizens, and the accessibility of the fruits of development to different regions and local communities.

Speaking about development in Africa, Mahama called for a new approach based on strengthening local capacities, innovation, and entrepreneurship, while prioritizing national ownership in financing and implementing development programs. He emphasized that his country appreciates the support provided by international partners, but that the next phase requires building a more resilient and sustainable model, relying primarily on national resources and expertise.

The President explained that this vision is reflected in the policies and reforms adopted by his government, which include improving economic management, enhancing the mobilization of local revenues, diversifying the economic base, encouraging exports, and attracting strategic investments that contribute to achieving economic growth and creating job opportunities.

Mahama also praised the role played by civil society organizations in supporting the democratic process in Ghana, describing them as a key partner in defending human rights, promoting transparency and accountability, and achieving inclusive development.

He stressed that many of the democratic gains achieved by the country were the result of constructive cooperation between state institutions and civil actors, emphasizing the importance of continuing this cooperation to advance development efforts and consolidate political and institutional stability in the country.