The Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration, which spanned from 2017 to 2025, left behind a complex and deeply contested economic legacy. While supporters point to certain achievements, a prevailing sentiment across the nation suggests that the period has left deep scars on the national psyche.
One of the most prominent issues was the severe economic downturn experienced during the latter half of the administration. The once-promising economic growth of the early years gave way to a period marked by high inflation, a depreciating cedi, and a crippling debt crisis. Critics argue that a lack of fiscal discipline and prudent economic management contributed significantly to this crisis, leaving ordinary Ghanaians burdened with rising costs of living and a diminished quality of life.
Beyond the economic challenges, the administration’s handling of social issues also contributed to the feeling of a nation wounded. While initiatives were launched to address poverty and inequality, their impact appears to have been insufficient to counter the rising tide of economic hardship. Furthermore, accusations of corruption and cronyism cast a long shadow over the government’s credibility and damaged public trust.
The administration’s approach to freedom of speech and press also garnered significant criticism. Instances of alleged intimidation and harassment of journalists and dissenting voices raised concerns about the state of press freedom and the broader health of democracy. These incidents, coupled with other perceived limitations on expression, fostered an environment of self-censorship and hampered open dialogue.
Furthermore, the management of key sectors such as education and healthcare also came under scrutiny. Despite investments in these areas, concerns remain about the quality of services delivered and the accessibility of these essential services to the wider population, particularly in rural communities.
The Economic Management Team, led by Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, faced significant challenges in steering the economy through turbulent times. The team was tasked with implementing key economic policies and managing the nation’s finances. However, critics argue that the team’s efforts were insufficient to address the deep-rooted economic issues and that their policies often exacerbated the problems.
ENHANCING GHANA’S INFRASTRUCTURE: Healthcare, Rail, Air, and River Transport
In the 2025 State of the Nation Address, President John Dramani Mahama highlighted several key areas of focus for Ghana’s development. Among these, healthcare and transport infrastructure were prominently featured, underscoring their critical role in the nation’s progress.
HEALTHCARE
The President acknowledged the severe economic difficulties facing the nation, including a public debt of GHȼ721 billion and rising inflation. Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to improving healthcare services. Key measures include enhancing domestic revenue mobilisation to fund healthcare initiatives and ensuring fiscal discipline to allocate resources effectively. The government also plans to invest in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to improve access to medical services and reduce the burden on urban healthcare facilities.
A significant initiative under this plan is the **Mahama Care** program, which aims to provide comprehensive and accessible management solutions for individuals with chronic diseases such as kidney problems, diabetes, hypertension, and more. The program focuses on increasing awareness and education about chronic diseases, facilitating timely access to healthcare services, and fostering a supportive environment for patients and their families.
Additionally, the government is prioritising **preventive healthcare delivery** by promoting healthy lifestyles, preventive screenings, and vaccinations. This approach aims to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases and improve overall public health.
RAIL TRANSPORT
Rail transport is essential for connecting various regions of Ghana and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The government aims to revitalise the rail sector by investing in modern infrastructure and expanding the rail network. This includes upgrading existing rail lines and constructing new ones to connect key economic hubs. The goal is to create a more efficient and reliable rail system that can support economic growth and reduce the pressure on road transport.
The **Tema-Mpakadan Railway** project is a significant part of this initiative. The railway line will feature six passenger stations and a freight terminal near the Tema Port, enabling easy cargo transportation to and from Ghana’s north and beyond. Passenger services on the Tema-Mpakadan Railway line are set to commence, providing a reliable and efficient mode of transport for residents along the route.
AIR TRANSPORT
Air transport plays a crucial role in connecting Ghana to the rest of the world and supporting international trade and tourism. The government plans to enhance the capacity and efficiency of the country’s airports, including Kotoka International Airport and Ho Airport. The Ho Airport, completed in 2017 and opened to commercial traffic in 2021, is a key part of this strategy. The airport aims to boost the economy of the Volta Region and promote tourism, despite facing challenges such as low patronage and high operational costs.
A notable development at Ho Airport is the allocation of **10 acres for pilot training and aircraft servicing**. This includes the establishment of a pilot training school and a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility. These initiatives aim to address the global shortage of aircraft maintenance capacity and provide world-standard aerospace engineering services.
RIVER TRANSPORT
River transport is an often-overlooked mode of transportation that has significant potential in Ghana. The government plans to develop river transport infrastructure to improve connectivity and support economic activities along the country’s rivers. This includes dredging rivers to ensure navigability, constructing ports and terminals, and promoting the use of river transport for the movement of goods and people. By leveraging the potential of river transport, the government aims to reduce congestion on roads and railways and provide an alternative mode of transportation that is both efficient and environmentally friendly.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
The government is placing a strong emphasis on renewable energy as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable development and reduce the nation’s carbon footprint. Key initiatives include the promotion of solar energy through the installation of solar panels on rooftops across the country. This effort aims to harness the abundant sunlight available in Ghana, providing a clean and reliable source of energy for homes and businesses. Additionally, the government plans to invest in wind and hydropower projects to diversify the energy mix and ensure a stable supply of electricity. These initiatives will not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the renewable energy sector.
CONCLUSION
President Mahama’s 2025 State of the Nation Address outlines a comprehensive plan to enhance Ghana’s infrastructure, focusing on healthcare, rail, air, and river transport. By investing in these critical sectors, the government aims to improve the quality of life for Ghanaians, boost economic growth, and ensure sustainable development. The initiatives highlighted in the address reflect a commitment to addressing the nation’s challenges and building a brighter future for all.
In contrast, the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration’s economic legacy remains a contentious topic. While there were efforts to address various challenges, the overall impact on the nation’s economy and social fabric has been a subject of intense debate. The administration’s tenure has left a lasting impact on Ghana, shaping the nation’s economic and political landscape for years to come.
Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
