Aid cannot get us to the economic state we want - Prez Akufo-Addo

Prez Akufo-Addo seated with President Buhari on his right, and First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo on his left

Ghana's President Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo-Addo has said that the economic freedom Ghanaians desire cannot come through aid. Speaking during the commemoration of Ghana's 61st independence anniversary at the Black Star Square, the president stated that Ghana has over years fought poverty with aid, and to change this Ghanaians must harness their resources effectively and fight corruption.

This year's independence anniversary is themed, "Ghana Beyond Aid". Making comparisons with other countries like Malaysia, President Akufo-Addo said that Ghana, with its plenty resources, can do what other advanced countries with resources can do. He mentioned that "a Ghana beyond aid, is a prosperous Ghana".

Special guest at the event was President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria, who promised to help Ghana fight corruption.

Ghana is the first black African country to gain independence on March 6, 1957 under the leadership of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah who served as Prime Minister and the country's first president.