President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to draw inspiration from the legacy of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, as the country observes Founder’s Day.
In a Facebook message on Monday, September 21, 2026, President Mahama described the occasion as a time to reflect on what he termed the “immortal legacy” of Dr Nkrumah.
He said Nkrumah’s pursuit of political independence, Pan-African unity and self-reliance helped position Ghana as a symbol of hope beyond its borders.
Mahama also referenced Nkrumah’s famous declaration that “the black man is capable of managing his own affairs”, saying the principle continues to form part of Ghana’s national identity and sense of pride.
According to the President, although Nkrumah led Ghana’s struggle for political independence, the broader responsibility of building a prosperous and equitable nation remains a task for current generations.
He therefore urged citizens to draw lessons from Nkrumah’s vision and contribute to the country’s development.
“Let us draw strength from Osagyefo’s vision and contribute in our own way to attaining the Resetting Ghana Agenda,” Mahama said.
The President also called on Ghanaians both at home and abroad to set aside divisions and embrace what he described as selfless patriotism.
He said a shared commitment to national development would be necessary to achieve economic freedom and social justice.
Mahama further urged citizens to work collectively towards building a country that creates opportunities for its people and is resilient enough to withstand future challenges.
“Just as Nkrumah fought for our political independence, we have a collective duty today to build a prosperous, equitable, and resilient Ghana,” he said.
Dr Nkrumah led Ghana to independence from British colonial rule in 1957 and remains associated with the promotion of African unity, industrialisation and economic self-reliance.
Founder’s Day is observed on September 21, the birth date of Dr Nkrumah, although the official designation and manner of observing the day have changed over the years.
Mahama concluded his message by wishing Ghanaians a happy Founder’s Day and encouraging citizens to remain committed to the country’s development.
