In line with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, the SONA provides the President an opportunity to account for his stewardship and outline government’s policy direction for the year ahead.

During the 2026 SONA, President Mahama declared that Ghana’s economy is stabilising and returning to growth, telling Parliament that “Ghana is back” and “Ghana is working again.”

He also pledged to address the long-standing “no bed syndrome” in the country’s hospitals, assuring that patients in emergency situations will be attended to, even if makeshift arrangements are required.

His remarks come in the wake of the tragic death of 29-year-old engineer Charles Amissah, who reportedly died after being turned away from multiple hospitals due to a lack of beds — a development that has reignited national debate over the state of Ghana’s healthcare system.

The address was attended by Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Chief Justice Justice Baffour-Bonnie, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, First Lady Lordina Mahama, members of the Council of State, heads of security agencies, the diplomatic corps, and other dignitaries.

Adomonline’s photojournalist Joseph Odotei was present to capture these moments.