By Ashiadey Dotse
President John Dramani Mahama has said Ghana’s recent economic stability is only the foundation, stressing that the real priority is to improve the lives of citizens through jobs and growth.
Speaking at the 2026 May Day celebration at Jackson Park in Koforidua in the Eastern Region on Friday, May 1, 2026, the President said the country is now moving beyond stabilising the economy to focusing on expansion and job creation.
The event, organised by the Trades Union Congress, was held outside Accra for the first time in several years. President Mahama described the decision as a sign that national development must include all regions of Ghana.
President Mahama said the government’s initial focus was to stabilise the economy by controlling inflation, reducing interest rates, and restoring fiscal discipline. He said progress had been made in these areas.
“Stability is the foundation, but it is not the house. The real task is to build a better life for our people on that foundation,” he said.
He added that government’s next phase will focus on turning economic stability into jobs and opportunities for citizens.
According to him, a new economic policy will soon be presented to Cabinet and Parliament. It will focus on investing at least one per cent of GDP annually in sectors that create jobs.
He also highlighted the government’s 24-hour economy policy, saying it will help increase productivity and support industries operating multiple shifts through incentives such as tax relief and lower energy costs.
President Mahama praised Ghanaian workers for their contribution to national development, describing them as the country’s most valuable asset. He also commended engineers from the Ghana Grid Company and the Volta River Authority for restoring full operations at the Akosombo Hydroelectric Plant after a recent fire incident.
He said all six turbines at the plant are now working, restoring electricity supply after disruptions.
The President said his visit to Koforidua is part of a nationwide tour to engage citizens and assess development projects. He is expected to hold a town hall meeting with workers, traders, students, and traditional leaders in the Eastern Region.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive development, saying economic growth must lead to improved living standards for all Ghanaians.
