Obama impressed Ghanaians

Ghanaians and the international community present Saturday at President Barack Hussein Obama’s first policy speech on Africa delivered in Ghana at the Accra International Conference Center were highly impressed heralding it as a masterpiece.

A cross section of Ghanaians The Statesman interviewed on their impression about the US President speech spoke very highly of him. One element that touched their heart was the fact that Mr Obama did not make any empty promises to Africa but rather encouraging Africans to rely on themselves to address their problems through his popular yes we can spirit.

According to Kojo Asante, Centre for Democratic Development, the focus of Obama’s speech is for African leaders not to find or give excuses for their failures and atrocities against their people. He said per the President speech, the US is willing to help Africa provided that African leaders would take the initiative to address their own problems.

Mr Asante was of the opinion that the main issues raised by Mr Obama were kin to issues the country is trying to solve.

To Hon Asiamah, Member of Parliament for Atwima Mponua, Obama’s speech is a clear demonstration of bold leadership. “The speech is comprehensive and touches on every aspect of our political layer, such as the need for Africa to unit and dictatorship done away with,” he noted.

On her part, Catherine Afeku, MP for Evalue-Gwira, said Mr Obama personifies Africa. She observed that the four pillars the US President touched on are matters that will move Africa forward. Ms Afeku was also gratified that Mr Obama put Ghana on a very high pedestal, describing it as, “a victory to present and past governments.”

Nii Nortey Dua, MP for Ledzokuku and a Deputy Minister for Sport, described it as a very balanced speech. He said development and democracy are partners and therefore Ghana should cease the opportunity that Obama brings.