Accra:Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo served as the 13th President of Ghana from January 2017 to January 2025, implementing significant policies including the Free Senior High School programme (Free SHS), One District, One Factory (1D1F), and Agenda 111. His tenure was also marked by initiatives like the National Cathedral project.
According to Ghana Web, Akufo-Addo's presidency saw major setbacks such as an economic crisis partly due to a debt restructuring programme and public concerns over illegal mining, known as 'galamsey'. These issues were prevalent during his second term.
The Free SHS programme, launched in 2017, improved access to senior high school education but faced challenges related to school infrastructure and educational quality. The One District, One Factory initiative aimed at industrialization faced implementation issues, while Agenda 111, a healthcare infrastructure programme, encountered funding and construction delays.
The National Cathedral project stirred controversy over its financing and construction progress. By October 2026, the Mahama administration announced it would not allocate further public funds to the project pending a forensic audit review.
Ghana's economic difficulties during Akufo-Addo's second term resulted in an IMF support programme in 2023, following high inflation and currency depreciation. The Domestic Debt Exchange Programme affected domestic bondholders, including pensioners.
Despite efforts to combat illegal mining, it remained a significant environmental challenge. The administration faced scrutiny over its handling of this issue, which had substantial impacts on Ghana's natural resources.