Mahama’s 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA)

A Blend of Politics, Culture, and Vision 

by Jasmine Zahabi

On February 27, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama delivered his first inaugural State of the Nation Address (SONA) for his second term to Parliament, fulfilling the constitutional mandate outlined in Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution.

President John Dramani Mahama delivering his first inaugural State of the Nation Address

The SONA brought together an array of esteemed dignitaries, including Members of Parliament, traditional leaders, the judiciary, and international representatives. 

The session, presided over by Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, showcased a striking display of Ghanaian culture and political symbolism through attire and decor.

Distinguished Attendees and Their Symbolic Attire

Among the notable attendees were Chief Justice Her Ladyship Gertrude Torkornoo and the justices of the Supreme Court, donned in their traditional justice robes.

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor, former First Lady Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, and former Speaker of Parliament Edward Doe Adjaho were also present.

Majority caucus dressed in white, while the Minority wore black outfits

A significant visual statement was made by Members of Parliament, with the Majority caucus dressed in white, while the Minority wore black. 

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga stated that the white attire represented positivity in the President’s speech. 

Meanwhile, the Minority, led by the Bawku Central MP, argued that their black clothing signified the economic challenges left behind. 

Despite this contrast, the NPP expressed support for Mahama’s ‘Reset Ghana’ vision, pledging to assist in the country’s recovery.

Revered chiefs, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and representatives from the diplomatic corps added to the grandeur of the occasion. 

President Mahama himself wore a colorful smock, reflecting his deep connection to Ghanaian heritage and the northern regions. 

Vice-President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang complemented this with an elegant traditional slit and kaba in lemon green and yellow, paired with a matching headscarf, exuding cultural pride and sophistication.

The chamber was beautifully adorned in national colors—red, yellow, green, and black—serving as a powerful backdrop that underscored unity and patriotism.

Memorable Moments and Ceremonial Honors

The introduction of dignitaries provided a lighthearted moment when Speaker Bagbin acknowledged former President Kufuor as the only past president in attendance.

MPs, however, began chanting the name of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

In response, the Speaker calmly reminded them, “Honourable members, we are recognising only those present,” which was met with laughter throughout the chamber.

On a more solemn note, the Ghana Armed Forces provided a ceremonial guard of honor, reinforcing the nation's stability and commitment to tradition.

A Charged Atmosphere of Engagement and National Unity

The overall atmosphere was lively, marked by applause and enthusiastic responses from attendees.

As President Mahama delivered his address, moments of rapt attention were interspersed with applause, especially when key policy initiatives were announced.

Optimism greeted economic growth plans, while discussions on national challenges evoked a more contemplative silence.

Despite political differences, there was a shared sentiment of national unity and a collective aspiration for Ghana’s progress.

Key Highlights from President Mahama’s Address

State of the Economy – The President asserted that the economy inherited from the previous administration was in worse condition than anticipated but vowed to focus on solutions rather than lamentations.

Operation Recover All the Loot (ORAL) – He provided updates on the initiative aimed at reclaiming misappropriated state resources from the previous government.

Agenda 111 Hospital Project – The status of the much-anticipated hospital infrastructure project was reviewed, with assurances of its continuation.

Free Senior High School (SHS) Policy – President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining the Free SHS policy, ensuring no disruptions to the program.

The 2025 SONA not only served as an assessment of Ghana’s current state but also as a roadmap for the future.

It underscored a commitment to economic recovery, infrastructural development, and national unity, setting the tone for the Mahama administration’s governance trajectory.

Read Full Text of The State of Nation Address (SoNA) courtesy of 3news.com