By Rebecca Ekpe
The State of the Nation Address, SONA, is a vital instrument for promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance, while also setting the national agenda and promoting unity and dialogue among citizens. This week, the President of the Republic, John Mahama, will present his first State of the Nation Address to Parliament. SONA is considered a ritual, but how relevant is this exercise to citizens’ engagement, and what message is being transmitted to the global and investor community?
The State of the Nation Address, SONA, is a crucial event in a country’s political calendar, offering the Head of State or Government an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s progress, challenges, and future direction. The State of the Nation Address is important in reflecting on National Progress.
For example, on Accountability, SONA provides an opportunity for the government to account for its actions, policies, and decisions over the past year. On Assessing Performance, it allows the government to evaluate its progress toward achieving its goals and objectives.
The State of the Nation Address can also be used to resolve some lingering National concerns. For example, in Identifying Challenges, SONA helps identify pressing national challenges, such as economic, social, or environmental issues.
In Outlining Solutions, the government presents its plans and strategies to address these challenges and improve the lives of citizens.
Another significant point is that the State of the Nation Address can provide Setting for Future Direction.
On Policy Directions, SONA can outline the government’s policy priorities and initiatives for the upcoming year.
On a Vision for the Future, it can provide a glimpse into the government’s long-term vision and plans for the country’s development.
The State of the Nation Address can Promote Transparency and Good Governance.
On Transparency, SONA can provide citizens with information about government activities, plans, and achievements.
And on Good Governance, it demonstrates the government’s commitment to good governance, accountability, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs.
When the President delivers the State of the Nation Address, it is expected to Foster National Unity and Dialogue.
On National Unity, the speech can promote an understanding that emphasises shared values, goals, and aspirations.
In the area of Dialogue and Engagement, it encourages a discourse among citizens, civil society, and government institutions.
SONA more importantly, provides critical information to International Partners and Investors.
On International Relations it gives the partners and investors a more direct vision about the country’s development priorities, policies, and investment opportunities.
On Global Positioning, it helps to position the country on the global stage, promoting its interests and values.
