Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo: A Journey of Leadership and Service

Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, born on March 29, 1944, in Accra, Gold Coast (now Ghana), has left an indelible mark on Ghanaian politics and society. His journey from a young student to the highest office in the land is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

Early Years and Education

Nana Addo’s educational path took him from Accra to the United Kingdom and back. He attended the Government Boys School and Rowe Road School in Accra before venturing to the UK for secondary education at Lancing College. Returning to Ghana, he pursued a bachelor’s degree in economics at the University of Ghana. His thirst for knowledge led him to study law in both England and Ghana, where he was called to the bar.

Legal Career and Political Activism

Akufo-Addo’s legal career spanned continents. He worked in France at the Paris office of the U.S. law firm Coudert Brothers before returning to Ghana. In 1979, he co-founded the law firm Akufo-Addo, Prempeh & Co. But his impact extended beyond legal circles.

In the late 1970s, Akufo-Addo served as the general secretary of the People’s Movement for Freedom and Justice (PMFJ), a group that opposed the military government’s plans. His family’s legacy in Ghana’s pursuit of independence and public service further fueled his passion for change.

Political Journey

In 1992, Akufo-Addo joined the nascent New Patriotic Party (NPP). He served as a member of Parliament under the party’s banner for three terms (1996–2008). His tenure included roles as Attorney General and Minister of Justiceunder President John Kufuor. Later, he assumed the position of Foreign Minister.

The Presidential Path

In January 2017, Akufo-Addo achieved the pinnacle of his political career—he became the President of Ghana. His leadership has been marked by efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, promote economic growth, and address social challenges. His commitment to justice, education, and healthcare remains unwavering.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo: A Legacy of Transformation and Progress

As President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has led the nation through a period of significant change and development. His administration, which began in 2017, has been marked by several key achievements that have shaped the country’s trajectory. Let’s delve into some of the notable accomplishments during his tenure:

1. Free Senior High School (SHS): President Akufo-Addo fulfilled his promise of providing free secondary education. Under the Free SHS policy, students in public senior high schools receive not only tuition-free education but also free textbooks, boarding, meals, and even agricultural, vocational, and technical education. This initiative has expanded access to education for thousands of Ghanaian youth
2. Nation Builders Corps (NaBCO): Approximately 100,000 graduates have been employed through the NaBCO program. These beneficiaries work across various modules, including Feed Ghana, Educate Ghana, Revenue Ghana, Heal Ghana, Enterprise Ghana, Digitize Ghana, and Governance Ghana. President Akufo-Addo emphasized that the stipends provided should be earned through hard work, not seen as free money.
3. Restoration of Nursing Trainee Allowance: Trainee nurses and midwives expressed their gratitude when President Akufo-Addo reinstated their allowances. Over 58,000 trainees in public nursing and midwifery schools now receive monthly stipends, easing their financial burdens.
   
4. National Digital Property Addressing System (ghanapostGPS): In pursuit of formalizing Ghana’s economy, President Akufo-Addo launched the National Digital Property Addressing System.
5. One District, One Factory: The President initiated the ambitious industrialization drive through the “One District, One Factory” project. By promoting local manufacturing and creating jobs, this program aims to transform communities across Ghana.
6. Foreign Policy Shift: President Akufo-Addo’s administration shifted Ghana’s foreign policy from reliance on grants to fostering partnerships based on trade and investment.
7. Record of Achievements: President Akufo-Addo asserts that his record speaks for itself. From managing the national economy to healthcare, infrastructure development, and the fight against corruption, his administration has left a lasting impact. Whether it’s responding to the COVID-19 pandemic or advancing agricultural and industrial transformation, the evidence is clear.tenure:
8. Inflation Reduction: Under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership, inflation has decreased from 15.4% in 2016 to 10.4% at the end of 2020¹. This stability has positively impacted the economy and citizens.
9. Lower Lending Rates: The average lending rates dropped from 32% in 2016 to 21% in 2020¹. This move has facilitated access to credit for businesses and individuals.
10. Exchange Rate Stability: Over the last four years, the average exchange rate depreciation was 7.3%, the lowest for any first-term government since 1992. In 2020, the rate of depreciation hit a 28-year low¹.
11. Financial Sector Cleanup: President Akufo-Addo’s administration tackled the financial sector crisis inherited from the previous government. They successfully saved the deposits of 4.6 million depositors¹.
12. Economic Growth: Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Ghana remained one of the fastest-growing economies globally for four consecutive years. The trade balance recorded a surplus from 2017 to 2020, and the Gross International Reserves increased significantly¹.
13. Planting for Food and Jobs: This initiative led to a 71% increase in maize production and a 34% increase in paddy rice production. Ghana’s food security improved, as reflected in global rankings¹.
14. Sovereign Credit Rating Upgrade: Ghana’s sovereign credit rating was upgraded from B- in 2016 to B with a stable outlook, marking the first upgrade in a decade¹.
15. Educational Advancements: President Akufo-Addo’s focus on education remains unmatched in the 4th Republic. Initiatives like the Smart Schools Project underscore his commitment to nurturing Ghana’s future generations².

As President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo celebrates his 80th birthday, Ghanaians reflect on these achievements and look forward to continued progress under his leadership.

As we reflect on Nana Addo’s journey, we recognize a leader who has navigated complexities with grace and determination. His legacy continues to shape Ghana’s future, and his story inspires generations to come.