National Honours and Awards 2024: President Akufo-Addo urges honourees to aspire to greater heights
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged recipients of this year’s National Honours and Awards and Presidential Honours for Distinguished Service to use their recognition as a catalyst for further accomplishments.
Speaking at the Accra International Conference Centre, he described the honourees as symbols of triumph over adversity, service over self, and hope over despair.
“To our honourees, let this recognition inspire you to reach even greater heights. Your contributions have catalysed and transformed our society, and you embody the very best of Ghana,” the President remarked.
He highlighted the outstanding contributions of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, whose leadership in digital transformation has modernised Ghana’s economy and strengthened its resilience. Other individuals recognised included Dr Ernest Addison for his role in steering the financial sector during challenging times, Professor Atuisu for his impact on education, and creatives like COVID, who have showcased Ghana’s cultural richness on the global stage.
The President also paid tribute to posthumous awardees, including Marcus Garvey, whose Pan-African ideals continue to inspire unity and self-determination among Africans worldwide.
“Today is not just about the honourees; it is about what they represent. Their stories remind us of the values that make us strong as a people—fortitude, integrity, and unity,” President Akufo-Addo stated.
The ceremony also recognised institutions such as the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Immigration Service, and the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, whose teamwork and dedication reflect the nation’s collective spirit.
Looking to the future, the President called on all Ghanaians to contribute towards building a nation “where every child has a future, every worker has dignity, and every citizen has a voice.” He stressed that the achievements celebrated today serve as the foundation for Ghana’s ambitious reforms in governance, education, and industry, as the country progresses towards self-reliance.
“Together, we can build a nation that stands as a beacon of hope for Africa and the world,” the President concluded.