News Guide Africa

Tag: Chief of staff Julius Debrah

  • The Steady Architect of Hope: Why Julius Debrah is the Name on Everyone’s Lips

     

    ​Author: Adnan Adams Mohammed

    Award-winning Journalist & Human Rights Advocate

     

    ​In the high-octane arena of Ghanaian politics, where rhetoric often outpaces results, a different kind of leadership is quietly maturing. It is a leadership that doesn’t need to shout to be heard, nor does it need to push to be felt.

    It belongs to Hon. Julius Debrah—a man whose trajectory is increasingly seen not just as a political career, but as a blueprint for Ghana’s future governance.

    ​From the bustling markets of Accra to the diplomatic corridors of international summits, the sentiment is coalescing: “Chief,” as he is affectionately known, is ready.

    ​The Calm in the Storm

    ​What sets Julius Debrah apart in a crowded political landscape is his precision. In an era of reactionary politics, Debrah is a strategist of “calm precision.” He possesses the rare ability to navigate complex governance hurdles without losing his footing or his temper.

    ​His tenure in various high-ranking offices has been defined by a “people-first” philosophy. Whether he is engaging with grassroots organizers or consulting with global policy experts, the approach remains the same: listen deeply, analyze sharply, and act decisively. This balance of political intelligence and human insight has made him a bridge-builder in a time of deep partisan divides.

    ​A Global Vision with Local Roots

    ​Leadership in the 21st century requires a dual lens—one focused on the immediate needs of the Ghanaian citizen and the other on Ghana’s place in a rapidly evolving global economy.

    ​Julius Debrah has spent years refining this dual perspective.

    ​Locally: He remains grounded in the daily realities of the people, maintaining a deep, authentic connection to the youth and the working class.

    ​Internationally: He is being prepared for the weight of future responsibilities, garnering respect from international partners who see in him a steady hand capable of steering the nation toward sustainable growth.

    ​The Future is Purpose-Driven

    ​The hashtag currently trending across social media, #JDISTHEFUTURE, is more than just a digital slogan; it is a reflection of a growing national consensus. Ghanaians are looking for a leader who offers a rare combination of wisdom, steadiness, and vision.

    ​As the nation looks toward its next chapter, the focus is shifting toward those who have proven they can lead with purpose rather than just ambition. Julius Debrah stands at the forefront of this shift. He is a leader being prepared by experience, tempered by responsibility, and driven by a profound love for the Republic.

    ​When the time comes for the next generation of leadership to take the mantle, Hon. Julius Debrah won’t just be stepping into a role—he will be fulfilling a destiny that he has meticulously and humbly prepared for.

    ​”Leadership is not about the next election; it’s about the next generation. In Julius Debrah, Ghana finds a man who understands both.”

     

  • Gov’t revokes 2,080 “Last-Minute” appointments, promotions following post-election review

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    By Adnan Adams Mohammed

    A high-level committee established by the Office of the Chief of Staff has concluded its investigation into the recruitment, appointments, and promotions made within the Public Service following the December 7 elections.

    The review has resulted in the revocation of a total of 2,080 personnel actions deemed to have been executed outside of standard administrative protocols.
    ​The committee was tasked with scrutinizing “last-minute” employment decisions to ensure they met the rigorous standards of the Public Service Commission and established institutional procedures.

    ​The Committee’s Findings

    ​The comprehensive audit categorized thousands of individual cases into three distinct outcomes based on their level of compliance with civil service regulations:

    ​Revocations: A total of 2,080 individuals saw their recruitment, appointments, or promotions cancelled per the directive from the Chief of Staff.

    ​Upheld Appointments: 1,201 appointments were officially upheld by the committee. These cases were found to have fully complied with due process and legitimate administrative requirements.

    ​Procedural Failures: Of the total revocations, 541 specific appointments were nullified solely due to a documented failure to comply with established due process.

    ​Ensuring Administrative Integrity

    ​The directive from the Chief of Staff underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Public Service. By reviewing appointments made during the transition period, the committee aimed to prevent “midnight appointments”—a term often used to describe positions filled shortly before a potential change in administration without following competitive hiring practices.

    ​The 1,201 individuals whose roles were upheld are expected to continue their duties without interruption, having been validated as legitimate hires. Conversely, the over 2,000 affected by the revocation must vacate their positions or see their recent promotions rolled back to previous statuses.

    ​As of press time, the government has not indicated whether a new recruitment process will be opened to fill the vacancies created by these revocations.

  • Govt reiterates commitment to science, innovation, and Public-Private Partnerships for sustainable development – Chief of Staff

    Govt reiterates commitment to science, innovation, and Public-Private Partnerships for sustainable development – Chief of Staff

    The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its dedication to harnessing science, innovation, and robust Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as crucial drivers of the country’s sustainable development.

    In a keynote address delivered on behalf of the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Shamima Muslim, at the 34th Biennial Conference of the Ghana Science Association (GSA), held at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Tamale, Julius Debrah emphasized the significance of aligning research and innovation with enterprise and governance.

    The conference, themed “Leveraging Innovative Science to Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships for Sustainable Development in Ghana,” resonated with the government’s Reset Agenda, which focuses on job creation, accountability, and shared prosperity.

    The Chief of Staff underscored the imperative of synergizing science, technology, industry scale, and government policy to tackle pressing challenges in food security, healthcare, environmental protection, and digital transformation.

    Notable examples of successful partnerships cited included the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana’s collaboration with private entities to develop disease-resistant cocoa, the Noguchi Memorial Institute’s pivotal role in Ghana’s COVID-19 response, and innovative renewable energy projects such as the Bui Power Authority’s hydro-solar hybrid system, featuring West Africa’s first 5MW floating solar PV installation.

    The government’s Reset Agenda was highlighted, with key interventions in agriculture, healthcare, environment, and digital transformation. In agriculture, the Feed Ghana Programme is being expanded with a ₵1.5 billion allocation, complemented by Olam’s $200 million agro-industrial facilities expected to generate over 4,000 jobs. In healthcare, the establishment of a National Bio-Equivalence Centre and ₵50 million seed funding for the National Vaccine Institute aim to bolster local pharmaceutical production and vaccine self-sufficiency.

    Furthermore, initiatives such as the One Million Coders Programme, aimed at training youth in coding, AI, and data analytics, and the construction of 35 new STEM senior high schools and five STEM-focused universities, highlight the government’s commitment to digital transformation and STEM education.

    Chief of Staff emphasized the centrality of women, youth, and marginalized groups in national development, citing initiatives like the Women’s Development Bank and affirmative action policies.

    “Public-private partnerships are not mere additions, they are urgent pathways for unleashing the innovations Ghana urgently needs,” the statement stressed, urging scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers to deepen collaboration with government to drive sustainable growth.

    In conclusion, the government reaffirmed its commitment to science and innovation as the backbone of Ghana’s sustainable development, emphasizing the need for continued synergy between government, industry, and academia to build a prosperous future for all Ghanaians.

    The event was organized by the Ghana Science Association (GSA) in collaboration with the University for Development Studies (UDS).

     

    *Phalonzy🖊️*

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  • Mahama’s reset agenda puts youth at the forefront of inclusive growth, building a sustainable future – Chief of Staff Julius Debrah

    Mahama’s reset agenda puts youth at the forefront of inclusive growth, building a sustainable future – Chief of Staff Julius Debrah

    Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah has indicated government’s unrelenting commitment to fostering an inclusive economy that guarantees equal opportunities for all citizens, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, job creation, and social justice.

    The address was delivered on his behalf by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim at the 2025 National Emerging Leaders Economic Forum, held at the esteemed University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), under the auspices of VODEC Africa. The forum’s theme, “Building an Inclusive Economy: Ensuring Equal Opportunities for All Citizens,” which rings deeply with the spirit of this year’s Founders’ Day celebrations.

    With unyielding conviction, Debrah underscored the paramount importance of youth empowerment, citing stark statistics that reveal a staggering 1.9 million Ghanaian youth were not in employment, education, or training (NEET) last year.

    He stressed that an inclusive economy must deliberately create dignified jobs for young people, expand opportunities for women, protect the vulnerable, and ensure justice in the distribution of national resources.

    President Mahama’s Reset Agenda is anchored on the pillars of Jobs, Accountability, and Shared Prosperity, with visionary interventions including the newly established Youth Ministry.

    This ministry oversees key agencies such as the Youth Employment Agency, National Youth Authority, National Service Authority, and National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme.

    Flagship policies designed to equip young Ghanaians with skills, resources, and opportunities include the groundbreaking 24-Hour Economy, National Apprenticeship Programme, Adwumawura Programme, Youth Entrepreneurship Fund, and One Million Coders initiative.

    The Adwumawura Programme is also set to revolutionize youth entrepreneurship, supporting the creation of 10,000 youth-led enterprises annually through 200 hubs nationwide.

    Mr.Debrah highlighted the significance of Africa’s youthful population, noting that over 60% of the continent’s population is under 30. While this presents boundless opportunities, it also poses formidable risks if quality education, skills, and jobs are not prioritized.

    Mr. Debrah eloquently concluded, quoting the renowned anthropologist Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

    This profound remark underscores the transformative role young leaders play in shaping Ghana’s future, inspiring a new generation of visionary leaders to drive meaningful change.

    *Phalonzy🖊️*
    0272626466

  • Chief of Staff reechoes Mahama’s vision for an ‘accelerated export development drive’ at 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar

    Chief of Staff reechoes Mahama’s vision for an ‘accelerated export development drive’ at 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar

    The three-day event, full of life and the sense of being proud Ghanaian ended with ignited flame of hope in the creative minds of Ghanaian who weaved Ghana’s tradition and culture through artifacts and foods.

    Attracting massive patronage and renewed national calls to promote local goods and boost Ghana’s export agenda, the fourth edition of the Made-in-Ghana Bazaar opened on last week Saturday, September 6 and ended on Monday, September 8, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC).

    The event was graced by many dignitiaries including the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah who shined the event with charming charisma and wisdom.

    Opening the event, Hon Julius Debrah underscored the urgency of President Mahama’s vision for an “accelerated export development drive.”

    He stressed that, no country can thrive on an import-dependent economy. He urged Ghanaian ambassadors and foreign representatives to actively promote Made-in-Ghana products internationally, citing Ghanaian chocolate as an example of a product with the potential to transform the country’s export fortunes if vigorously marketed worldwide.

    As a hospitality industry player, he highlighted the importance of cultural storytelling in marketing, sharing an example of how an American visitor was captivated by the history behind a Ghanaian stool and Kente cloth.

    According to him, weaving Ghana’s heritage into its products could give them stronger appeal in international markets. He further recalled an era under General Acheampong when Ghanaian goods dominated local markets and challenged the relevant ministries to revive that momentum through education and campaigns that instil pride in local products.

    The bazaar showcased a wide variety of Ghanaian products, with patrons not only browsing but making significant purchases.

    Spearheaded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, the bazaar continues to serve as a vital platform for showcasing locally made products, connecting producers with markets, and driving investment opportunities.

    This year’s edition was held under the theme: “Championing Economic Diplomacy: Connecting Producers, Markets and Opportunities.”

    Government reaffirms export commitment

    Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, described the bazaar as a symbol of Ghana’s innovation, resilience, and global ambition.

    “This year’s theme, ‘Championing Economic Diplomacy: Connecting Producers, Markets and Opportunities,’ reflects the critical link between trade diplomacy and trade policy in advancing Ghana’s export and industrial transformation agenda,” he said.

    Mr. Ahi announced plans to distribute a comprehensive brochure of Made-in-Ghana products and export information through Ghana’s Missions worldwide. Developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, the brochure will serve as a strategic tool to align Ghanaian businesses with international demand and expand their market access.

    He also praised institutions such as the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), and Ghana EXIM Bank for their roles in supporting export-ready businesses, attracting investment, and financing Ghanaian enterprises.

    With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat headquartered in Accra, Mr. Ahi said Ghana is well-positioned to lead efforts to promote intra-African trade and regional integration.

    He urged that the “Made-in-Ghana” label be seen not just as a mark of origin but as a symbol of quality, pride, and economic opportunity.

    Driving international market access

    Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs James Gyakye Quayson noted that the bazaar, launched in 2018, has become a flagship initiative connecting local producers with global markets through Ghana’s diplomatic missions.

    He explained that it has been incorporated into the ministry’s annual work plan and tied to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Ghana’s envoys to measure their success in promoting exports.

    “We have a renewed determination to facilitate the penetration of Ghanaian products and services into foreign markets, which will invariably help our MSMEs thrive, thereby providing them with the needed impetus to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” Mr. Quayson said.

    He also stressed the need for higher product standards to meet both regional and international requirements

    “Let us continue to take the necessary steps aimed at standardisation and certification to improve the quality of our products, be open to innovation and technological advancement, and learn best practices from around the world,” he urged.

    The three-day event continues to attract businesses, investors, and patrons eager to support locally made products and champion Ghana’s export growth.

     

  • ‘Have Faith in the Reset’ – Julius Debrah calls for patience for Mahama

    ‘Have Faith in the Reset’ – Julius Debrah calls for patience for Mahama

    Chief of Staff, Hon Julius Debrah has thrown his full weight behind President John Dramani Mahama urging Ghanaians and the NDC grassroots to place blind trust in the President’s ability to “RESET” the country.

    In his latest pitch, Hon Debrah painted President Mahama as a visionary leader armed with unmatched experience – claims that sounded more like campaign jingles than serious governance talk.

    According to the CoS, President Mahama understands Ghana’s problems better than anyone and has a clear plan to fix them.

    The irony, of course, is that these problems have only deepened under the same leadership he now glorifies. If “understanding” challenges were the key to progress, Ghana would have long been an economic powerhouse.

    He assured the NDC grassroots they would “never be neglected,” echoing the familiar political lullaby that usually precedes exactly that neglect. His central plea was for patience an endless virtue politicians demand from citizens while delivering little in return.

    The CoS, Hon Julius Debrah crowned his endorsement with grand declarations about a “new era” for Ghana, conveniently ignoring that such promises have been recycled for decades with little to show.

    In reality, his sermon sounded less like a roadmap for progress and more like a call for Ghanaians to lower expectations and clap harder.

     

     

  • Ghana’s Chief of Staff to open Mining & Minerals Convention 2025

    Ghana’s Chief of Staff to open Mining & Minerals Convention 2025

    The Office of the Chief of Staff has confirmed that Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff of the Republic of Ghana, will deliver the Keynote Opening Address at the upcoming Mining & Minerals Convention 2025, scheduled for August 26–27, 2025 at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel, Accra.

    As Special Guest of Honour, the Chief of Staff will set the tone for this year’s Convention, which is themed “Shaping the Future of Ghana’s Gold Industry.”

    His address is expected to reaffirm government’s commitment to responsible mining, sustainability, local value retention and positioning Ghana as Africa’s trusted gold hub.

    The two-day Convention is Ghana’s flagship gathering for the gold and minerals sector — bringing together top government leaders, regulators, industry captains, investors and innovators to align policy, finance and sustainability in Ghana’s gold value chain.

    Other distinguished speakers confirmed for this year’s Convention include Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who will deliver Ministerial Remarks and the closing address by Martin Kwaku Ayisi, Chief Executive Officer, of the Minerals Commission, who will share regulatory updates and sector governance direction.

    Sammy Gyamfi, CEO of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), will highlight strategies for responsible sourcing and digital gold transformation, and Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, will present industry insights and private sector collaboration priorities.

    The Mining & Minerals Convention will feature presidential and ministerial addresses, keynote presentations, policy sessions, technical panels, exhibitions and curated networking designed to drive investment, innovation and sustainable growth in Ghana’s gold and minerals industry.

    The Mining & Minerals Convention is Ghana’s leading gold and minerals platform, connecting policymakers, investors, miners, refiners, technologists and sustainability experts to shape policy direction and unlock long-term sector value.

     

     

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