The recent floods that have ravaged parts of Ghana, leaving a trail of death, destruction, and displacement, have left many aghast. On June 29, 2026, heavy rains triggered a deadly flood in Greater Accra and other affected regions, claiming lives and causing widespread destruction.
But in the midst of this tragedy, President John Dramani Mahama, in an address to the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, urged Ghanaians to keep faith despite the devastation. The President acknowledged the pain and grief caused by the recent disaster, yet urged citizens not to lose sight of the importance of faith and gratitude even in difficult times.
"Today, therefore, we gather not as members of different political parties, of ethnic groups or religions, but as one people under God, returning with grateful hearts, acknowledging that every blessing we enjoy ultimately comes from Him," he said.
The President reflected on the significance of this year's National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving theme, "Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want," describing it as timely and relevant to the country's current challenges. According to him, the theme speaks directly to Ghana's present moment and underscores the need for national unity, renewed values, and collective responsibility as the country works to recover from recent tragedies and build a stronger future.
The Bible, as President Mahama noted, encourages believers to remain thankful in every circumstance. Give thanks to Him and praise His name." The President quoted further from Scripture, emphasizing the importance of gratitude in the face of adversity.
The 2026 floods are not the first to ravage Ghana in recent times. In 2019, a severe flood in Accra left over 100,000 people without homes, and in 2020, a devastating flood in the northern region of the country caused widespread destruction. But the recent floods have been particularly devastating, with reports indicating that over 10% of residents in affected areas have been displaced.
The President's address comes as the country mourns the loss of lives and sympathizes with affected families. In the face of such tragedy, it is a poignant reminder of the importance of faith and gratitude in times of hardship.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name.
The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving is a significant event in Ghana's calendar, bringing together citizens from all walks of life to reflect on the country's values and principles. The theme of this year's event, "Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want," is particularly relevant in the face of current challenges.
As the country works to recover from recent tragedies and build a stronger future, the President's message is a timely reminder of the importance of unity, renewed values, and collective responsibility. The question is, will the country heed the President's call to faith and gratitude in the face of adversity?
Key Facts
- National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving theme: "Resetting Our Values to Build the Ghana We Want"
- Over 10% of residents in affected areas displaced
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18: "give thanks to God in every situation"
- Psalm 100:4: "enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name"
- 2026 floods are not the first to ravage Ghana in recent times