President John Dramani Mahama underscored the importance of unity in diversity, stating that Ghana’s mix of religions and cultures is a source of strength rather than division.
He highlighted the country’s longstanding tradition of peaceful coexistence, where Muslims and Christians actively participate in each other’s celebrations and live harmoniously as one people.
Speaking at the Eid-Ul-Fitr Celebrations 2026 at the Independence Square in Accra on Friday, March 20, the President described this interfaith unity as a valuable national asset that must be protected and nurtured.
He therefore called on citizens to reject extremism, intolerance, and divisive tendencies, urging them instead to embrace dialogue, mutual respect, and peace in order to sustain Ghana’s stability and cohesion.
“Our diversity of faith and culture is not a weakness, it is rather our strength. Muslims and Christians celebrate each other’s holy days. We participate in each other’s ceremonies and we coexist as one people,” he said.
“This harmony is a precious gift given to us by Allah and we must protect it. Let us reject anything that would divide us. Let us reject extremism and intolerance. Let us choose dialogue over discord. Let us choose unity over division and let us choose peace over conflict. As President, I stay dedicated to creating a Ghana that serves all its citizens.”
Reflecting on Ramadan, he highlighted its core values—self-discipline, compassion, generosity, and humility—and urged Muslims to sustain these virtues beyond the fasting period. Quoting the Qur’an (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183), he emphasized that fasting is meant to nurture righteousness and consciousness of Allah, which should guide daily life.
The President stressed that Eid is not only a celebration but also a call to continue living by the principles of kindness, justice, and integrity. He encouraged citizens to uphold compassion for the vulnerable, promote fairness, and strengthen community bonds.
Touching on governance, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an inclusive Ghana through policies focused on restoring hope, rebuilding trust, and creating opportunities.
He outlined key priorities, including improving access to education, creating jobs for the youth, investing in infrastructure, strengthening healthcare systems, and supporting Zongo and underserved communities. He, however, emphasized that national development requires collective effort, including citizens’ cooperation and prayers.
“Our recent agenda focuses on restoring hope, rebuilding trust and creating opportunities for everyone. We focus on expanding access to quality education, creating jobs especially for our youth, investing in infrastructure across all the regions, strengthening our healthcare delivery and empowering our Zongos and underserved communities. We’ll keep making sure that development reaches every part of our nation.”
On the international front, President Mahama expressed concern over ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, lamenting the loss of innocent lives and widespread suffering. He called for prayers for peace, healing, and wisdom among global leaders, urging a shift from conflict to dialogue.
He reiterated Ghana’s commitment to peace, justice, and respect for international law.
“Ghana remains committed to the principles of peace, justice, and respect for international law and will continue to lend our voice to cause a peaceful resolution of this conflict and any other conflicts in the way,” he stressed.
The President also encouraged generosity during Eid, urging Muslims to support the poor and vulnerable, and to view the celebration not only in terms of receiving but also giving.
He concluded with prayers for Ghana’s peace, stability, unity, and prosperity, while wishing Muslims a blessed Eid and praying for the acceptance of their عبادات (acts of worship).
“Let us also take a moment to pray for our beloved nation, Ghana. May Allah bless Ghana with peace and stability. May Allah grant wisdom and guidance to me and the leadership of this country. May Allah prosper the work of our hands and may Allah unite us as one people with a shared destiny.”
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh