Chapter 10-A New Challenge

Eric sat at the dining table, staring at the radio in front of him. The station had invited him for an interview after hearing about his speech at the school assembly. It was supposed to be exciting, but right now, he just felt nervous.

"Are you ready, my boy?" his father asked, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

Eric nodded, though his stomach felt tight. He had spoken in front of his classmates before, but this was different. Ghana would be listening.

At exactly 10 a.m., his voice filled the airwaves.

"I'm Eric Nyarko, and I believe Ghana can be the greatest country in the world."

The host chuckled. "That's a big dream for a five-year-old. What makes you so sure?"

"Because I see the problems, and I know they can be solved," Eric said firmly. "Ghana has everything it needs to be great. We just have to work together."

For the next few minutes, he spoke about his ideas—education, leadership, discipline. He explained how young people could make a difference.

Then, a caller's voice interrupted. "Ei, small boy like you, what do you know about life? Do you think leading a country is the same as playing with toys?"

Eric paused. His father watched him closely from across the table, waiting to see how he would respond.

With a deep breath, Eric said, "Sir, I respect your opinion, but great leaders don't wait until they are old to start making a difference. Kwame Nkrumah was young when he led Ghana to independence. I may be a small boy, but I have big ideas. And if we don't start now, when will we?"

The radio host smiled. "Spoken like a true leader."

After the interview, Eric's phone buzzed with messages. Some were from teachers and classmates congratulating him, but others were full of doubts.

"You think you're the next president?"

"Talk is cheap, small boy. Let's see what you can do."

Eric sighed. He knew not everyone would believe in him. But he also knew that actions spoke louder than words.

It was time for him to prove himself.