Prayer without hard work cannot transform Ghana’s economy – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has stressed that while prayer and faith remain important pillars of national life, they must be complemented by hard work, discipline and responsibility if Ghana is to achieve sustainable development and economic prosperity.

The president made the remarks during the 2026 National Day of Prayer held in Accra on Wednesday, July 1, where political leaders, clergy, traditional authorities and citizens gathered to pray for peace, unity and the continued progress of the country.

President Mahama called on Ghanaians to embrace a strong work ethic and actively contribute to national development, noting that the country’s aspirations for growth and transformation could only be realised through a combination of faith and purposeful action.

He said every citizen has a role to play in building a prosperous nation, urging Ghanaians to go beyond prayers by demonstrating commitment, diligence and discipline in their daily lives and workplaces.

Drawing inspiration from biblical teachings, the President emphasised that genuine faith must be accompanied by practical efforts to bring about meaningful change.

“Our national journey reminds us of an enduring truth, ‘faith without works is dead,’ says James 2:26. And prayer without responsibility cannot transform an economy. Hope without discipline cannot create prosperity.

“Throughout history, God’s people have always combined faith with hard work. When Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem, the people prayed but they also laboured. When Joseph prepared Egypt for the years of famine, they also planned wisely.”