The president-elect, John Dramani Mahama, has pledged that economic reforms during his second term will empower Ghanaians to meet their basic needs.

He emphasized that the 24-hour economy policy would be central to this vision, aiming to create well-paying, sustainable jobs.

Speaking after being declared the winner of the 2024 presidential election on Monday, December 9, Mahama outlined that his administration’s reforms would include important governance changes to “reset the nation” and restore Ghana as the “black star of Africa.”

He acknowledged that while some reforms might be challenging, they would prioritize the well-being of all citizens and provide them with opportunities for a dignified life.

“This is our home. But it is not enough to be born here and to die here. We must also be able to live here with satisfaction. We must be able to love, dream, laugh, eat, dance, drum, and share all aspects of the culture that was handed down to us.

“… and to do that, we must create sustainable and well-paying jobs through the 24-hour economy initiative. Our most basic needs must be met-affordable housing and healthcare, food and clean water, safe work, and fair wages,” he said.

Despite frustration and anger, Mr. Mahama urged Ghanaians to resist negativity and pessimism. He encouraged the nation to remain hopeful and believe that Ghana was on the path to becoming the “Ghana of hopes and dreams.”

“From the kayayei to the managing directors, to the market women, the bankers, the teachers, security personnel, nurses and doctors, the pastors and drivers,

tailors, and seamstresses, we are all essential to this country's functioning and forward motion,” he said.

Mahama won the 2024 presidential election with 6,328,397 representing 56.55 per cent of the valid votes cast in 267 out of the 276 Constituencies, while Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, had 4,657,304 votes representing 41.61 per cent.

This comes amid high expectations for his incoming government, especially with the implementation of Ghana’s 17th $3 billion loan-supported programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Watch as Ghanaians share their emotions on John Mahama's presidential win