The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has called on Ghanaians to embrace forgiveness, unity and collaboration as key drivers of national development and economic transformation.
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the Accra Friendship Forever Club Dinner on Saturday, Mr Debrah praised members of the club for their contributions to national development, particularly through their activities in the private sector.
He said the growth and transformation of Ghana’s economy depended heavily on the strength of its private sector and urged business leaders to work together to support national progress.
“The development of every nation is largely anchored on the strength of its private sector,” Mr Debrah said. “We must work together, pool our knowledge, and support each other if we are to transform Ghana into the industrial powerhouse we envision.”
Mr Debrah reassured members of the private sector that the government remained committed to creating a favourable business environment to support investment, innovation and economic growth.
He noted that policies would continue to encourage entrepreneurship and strengthen partnerships between government and businesses.
Relationships beyond politics
Beyond economic issues, the Chief of Staff also emphasised the importance of maintaining strong personal relationships and national unity, urging Ghanaians not to allow political differences to damage social bonds.
To illustrate his point, he shared a personal story from his time at Achimota School, recalling his relationship with Kofi Kufuor, the son of former President John Agyekum Kufuor.
Mr Debrah said that as a sixth-form student, Mr Kufuor used to keep his food in his cubicle, adding that neither of them could have imagined the future roles they would later occupy.
“At that time, we did not know President Kufuor would become Head of State one day, and I did not know I would become a politician someday,” he said.
He added that his long-standing relationship with the former president, who often offered him guidance and support, demonstrated that personal connections can transcend political differences.
Mr Debrah said strong relationships and national unity were just as important as economic policies in achieving Ghana’s development goals.
“Sometimes we allow our political leanings to spoil our relationships. But if we want our country to develop, we must encourage love and brotherliness,” he said.
Reflecting on his personal journey, he told President Mahama that the young student who once received small financial gifts during his school days had grown to become Chief of Staff.
He concluded by urging citizens to work together for the country’s future.
“Let us forgive, let us unite, and let us work together for the Ghana we all desire,” Mr Debrah said.
