Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Kwadaso Assembly, Eric Assibey, has underscored the importance of Ghana depending on its human and natural resources for socioeconomic transformation.
Speaking at the 69th Independence Day celebration at Ohwimase-Kwadaso M/A School, Mr. Assibey explained that the country is mature enough to be more self-sufficient.
The event featured a spectacular parade by cadet corps from Yaa Asantewaa Girls’ SHS, Prempeh College, Methodist Technical Institute, and BSTI, whose disciplined steps and spirited demeanor embodied the essence of national pride, injecting energy into the celebration.
Cultural displays and inspiring poems by pupils from various basic schools within the municipality further enriched the patriotic atmosphere.
In his address, Mr. Assibey highlighted Ghana’s remarkable democratic strides since independence, asserting that the theme “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope” resonated deeply with the nation’s current aspirations.
He emphasized that Ghana’s 69th independence anniversary is a wake-up call for the country to reduce its reliance on foreign aid and support.
He revealed that the country is endowed with abundant natural resources, a vibrant culture, and a resilient people, making it perfectly poised to chart its own course.
“As Ghana marks 69 years of independence, it’s clear the nation has outgrown its youthful phase and now needs to leverage its maturity, vast potential, and collective strength to drive sustainable development and self-reliance, like a mature individual,” he stated.
He noted that the administration, led by John Dramani Mahama, is prioritizing local value-added processing of Ghana’s natural resources and products, rather than exporting them raw, aiming to significantly boost revenue streams and drive the country’s development and growth.
This initiative, according to Mr. Assibey, aligns with the founding fathers’ vision of a self-sufficient Ghana—a step in the right direction to drive the nation towards true independence by reducing reliance on external factors and fostering internal growth and development.
He encouraged Ghanaians to stay hopeful, emphasizing that Ghana will ultimately become a self-sufficient and developed nation, no matter the timeline.
He made a passionate plea to citizens to rally behind local industries, entrepreneurs, and initiatives by buying local products and services, thereby boosting economic growth and development.
The occasion attracted a range of dignitaries, including Prof. Kingsley Nyarko, MP for Kwadaso Constituency, and Mr. Francis Adu-Boateng, Municipal Coordinating Director.
The gathering also drew religious leaders, executives and members of the political party, heads of various departments from the Kwadaso Municipal Assembly, and a cross-section of the general public, making for a diverse and representative audience.
Member of Parliament for Kwadaso Constituency, Prof. Kingsley Nyarko, acknowledged that Ghana has made progress 69 years post-independence, but revealed that significant challenges persist and efforts are needed to unlock the nation’s full potential.
“Our economy is currently characterized by low income, and we need to transition to an upper-middle-income status as a country. Achieving this depends on the government in power,” he said.
He stressed that building on the developmental initiatives and policies of previous administrations is vital to propel Ghana towards its ultimate goal of becoming a developed nation.
“Chapter 6 of the 1992 Constitution outlines the Directive Principles of State Policy. If you read Article 35(7), it states that, as far as practicable, a government shall continue and execute projects and programmes commenced by the previous government, and it’s imperative we adhere to this provision,” he added.
Prof. Kingsley urged Ghanaians to embrace their civic responsibilities and play an active role in supporting the government to drive progress and development across the nation, fostering a collective effort towards a better Ghana.
He made a clarion call to all residents of the Kwadaso Municipality and its environs to embrace the cultural diversity that enriches Ghanaian identity.
