By Foday Moriba Conteh
President Julius Maada Bio participated in the inauguration of Ghana’s newly elected President, John Dramani Mahama, on January 7, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra. The event was a significant occasion, with thousands of Ghanaians, along with key stakeholders, traditional leaders and Heads of State from across Africa, gathering to celebrate this milestone in Ghana’s democratic journey.
In his inaugural address, President John Dramani Mahama praised the people of Ghana for their unwavering commitment to peaceful elections, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. He called on Ghanaians to unite and work collaboratively toward the nation’s continued development, stressing the importance of national cohesion in overcoming challenges.
President John Dramani Mahama further emphasized the need for unity and peace across the African continent and the sub-region. He urged nations to act as “brother’s keeper” and called for stronger bilateral relations among African countries to promote mutual growth and regional stability.
The newly inaugurated President outlined his key priorities, including strengthening public health systems, tackling corruption and fostering transparency in governance. He committed to addressing these issues with urgency to improve the livelihoods of the Ghanaian people.
In a show of unity and solidarity, the guest of honor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, lauded the historic nature of the event and urged President John Dramani Mahama to focus on eradicating poverty and youth unemployment, two critical issues for sustainable development in West Africa. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also expressed his admiration for the presence of various African leaders, highlighting the collective effort to advance the continent’s shared goals.
The strong bilateral ties between Ghana and Sierra Leone were evident, with President Bio’s attendance underscoring Sierra Leone’s ongoing commitment to supporting democratic governance and fostering deeper ties with fellow African nations. This enduring relationship, built on mutual support during crises and shared development goals, continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening Africa’s political and economic stability.
The inauguration ceremony was a testament to Ghana’s democratic resilience and the collective aspirations of African nations to build a more united and prosperous future for the continent.
