Ghana should and would be a place where economic opportunities are available to everyone, says President John Dramani Mahama, who has taken office as the fourth President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana.

Delivering his inaugural address, President Mahama recognized the vital role played by the private sector, especially small and indigenous businesses, to the country’s workforce expansion, economic growth and stability.

“I want to assure the Ghanaian business community that I’ll be your ally; I will extend whatever support I am able to marshal to reinforce your contribution to Ghana’s development”, he assured.

President Mahama handed over the sword of office to himself on Monday as he assumed the mantle of leadership to finish the unexpired Presidency of the late President John Evans Atta Mills.

“This is our country, this is our moment, this is Ghana’s time”, said the President after being sworn into office.

“I’ll work to ensure that Ghana is a place where all our citizens, regardless of their religious faith, their ethnicity or political affiliation will have the opportunities available to them to reach their full potential”, Mr. Mahama said as he declared his stance to break a polarized society.

He has promised to give off his best and “ensure that my actions make a positive difference in the lives of Ghanaians”, adding that the citizenry are collectively responsible for the growth and development of the country.

Meanwhile, some economists say macroeconomic stability, job creation, productivity at both the public and private sectors as well as Ghana’s international relations within the global economy are some areas to engage the attention of the President as he takes office.

According to economist Deodat Adenutsi, President Mahama will be under pressure to deliver on election promises.

The President has already acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating that “there is a tremendous amount of work to be done; more jobs must be created, more roads must be built, bridges, schools and hospitals must be built”.

Investments in power, water and sanitation as well as agriculture are other areas of priority to the President.

“We must continue to invest on our agricultural sector and grow our economy so that it lifts the bulk of our most financial burdens especially amongst the poorest of our population”, noted Mahama.

Story by Kofi Adu Domfeh