Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the fifth President of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, has left a significant imprint on the nation’s political, economic, and social landscape.
Serving two terms from January 2017 to January 2025, his leadership has been marked by ambitious policies, infrastructural development, and efforts to transform Ghana’s economy.
While his tenure has drawn both praise and criticism, his legacies remain defining aspects of his presidency.
1. Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Policy
Perhaps the most notable achievement of President Akufo-Addo is the implementation of the Free SHS policy in 2017.
This initiative aimed to provide free secondary education to all Ghanaian students, removing financial barriers that prevented many young people from accessing quality education.
Despite challenges such as overcrowding and resource constraints, the policy has significantly increased enrollment and provided opportunities for thousands of students, earning widespread acclaim.
2. Infrastructure Development
President Akufo-Addo’s administration prioritized infrastructure development, focusing on roads, hospitals, and schools.
The “Year of Roads” campaign saw significant investments in the construction and rehabilitation of roads across the country, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Projects such as the Pokuase Interchange and the Tamale Interchange stand as testaments to his commitment to modernizing Ghana’s infrastructure.
3. Industrialization and the 1D1F Initiative
Through the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative, Akufo-Addo aimed to industrialize the economy by encouraging the establishment of factories in all districts.
The program sought to create jobs, reduce rural-urban migration, and boost local economies. By 2025, several factories had been established or revitalized, contributing to the country’s industrial growth.
4. The Year of Return and Beyond the Return
In 2019, President Akufo-Addo championed the “Year of Return” initiative, inviting people of African descent worldwide to reconnect with their roots in Ghana.
This successful campaign boosted tourism, generated significant revenue, and strengthened Ghana’s image as the “Gateway to Africa.” Its successor, “Beyond the Return,” focused on deepening economic ties with the African diaspora.
5. Digitalization of the Economy
Under Akufo-Addo’s leadership, Ghana made strides in digital transformation.
Initiatives such as the Ghana Card, Mobile Money Interoperability, and the digitalization of public services enhanced efficiency and improved access to government services.
These efforts positioned Ghana as a leader in digital innovation in West Africa.
6. Mixed Economic Legacy
Akufo-Addo’s economic policies drew mixed reactions.
While initiatives like the Planting for Food and Jobs program boosted agricultural productivity, challenges such as rising national debt, inflation, and a depreciating cedi overshadowed his economic achievements.
The COVID-19 pandemic further strained the economy, necessitating tough decisions and international support.
7. Human Rights and Governance
President Akufo-Addo’s commitment to democratic governance and human rights earned him recognition domestically and internationally.
However, his administration faced criticism for alleged corruption and press freedom issues.
Despite these concerns, his respect for constitutional processes and peaceful transitions of power affirmed Ghana’s democratic credentials.
Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s presidency has left a lasting legacy marked by ambitious reforms, infrastructural development, and a focus on education and industrialization.
While his administration faced significant challenges, including economic hardships and public criticism, his vision for a transformed Ghana remains a defining aspect of his tenure.
As history evaluates his presidency, the successes and lessons from his time in office will continue to shape Ghana’s development trajectory.