News Guide Africa

Tag: John mahama

  • Western Region NDC Hails Nomination of Deputy Minister Nominees

    Western Region NDC Hails Nomination of Deputy Minister Nominees

    Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Western Region has extended warm congratulations to Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah and Hon. Dorcas Affo-Toffey on their nominations as Deputy Minister of Health Designate and Deputy Minister of Transport, respectively.

    This distinction is a prove to President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to empowering Ghanaian women by entrusting them with pivotal leadership roles.

    According to Richard Kirk-Mensah, Regional Communication Officer, the NDC government is proud to recognize the Western Region’s talent, underscoring President Mahama’s dedication to harnessing the region’s potential.

    Prof. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah, a United States-trained surgeon and legislator representing Essikado-Ketan, is set to leverage her expertise to revolutionize healthcare delivery. Her vision aligns with the NDC government’s mission to make quality healthcare accessible to all Ghanaians.

    Meanwhile, Hon. Dorcas Affo-Toffey, a two-term Member of Parliament for Jomoro, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge acquired from both Ghana and America to the transport sector.

    Her nomination has been hailed by the Jomoro NDC as a “resounding affirmation” of her tireless dedication to the people of Jomoro and impactful service within the party and Parliament.

    The Western Region NDC expresses confidence that these two trailblazing leaders will drive growth in the region, collaborating effectively with other appointees and party leadership. The women’s community in the Western Region has also celebrated their nominations, wishing them a tenure marked by innovation, excellence, and transformative impact.

    In a statement, the NDC Western Region chapter thanked President Mahama for recognizing the region’s potential, stating, “We sincerely thank the President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, for once again recognizing the Western Region in his government.”

    The party is optimistic about the contributions Prof. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah and Hon. Affo-Toffey will make to their respective sectors.

  • President Mahama Explores Partnership with Portugal to Revitalize National Airline

    President Mahama Explores Partnership with Portugal to Revitalize National Airline

    Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy

    President John Dramani Mahama has expressed Ghana’s interest in collaborating with the Portuguese government to establish a national airline.

    Mahama made the remarks during a ceremony at the Jubilee House, where he received letters of credence from five newly accredited ambassadors to Ghana, including Maria Da Conceição de Sousa Pilar, the Portuguese envoy.

    President Mahama highlighted the strategic importance of deepening bilateral relations with Portugal, particularly in the areas of aviation, trade, and investment.

    “We appreciate the fact that the Portuguese national airline flies directly to Accra,” he stated. “Ghana itself is trying to reestablish its national airline. At the appropriate time, we will be looking for partners, and if the Portuguese national airline is interested, we could do a partnership.”

    He emphasized the need to expand economic ties and attract more investment into Ghana, citing the country’s rich natural resources and growing market.

    “We want to expand economic relations, and we believe that we can attract more investors to come and invest in Ghana. Ghana has a lot of natural resources, with a market size of almost 35 million people,” he added.

    This potential partnership is expected to play a significant role in Ghana’s efforts to revitalize its national airline and boost its economic growth. Ultimately, as the country continues to explore opportunities for development, the collaboration with Portugal could provide a valuable boost to its aviation sector and overall economic prospects.

  • No More ‘Free Range’ Defecation-Mahama’s Directive to District Assemblies

    No More ‘Free Range’ Defecation-Mahama’s Directive to District Assemblies

    Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy

     

    President John Dramani Mahama has issued a stern directive to all district assemblies, mandating them to reject building permits for any construction project that fails to incorporate adequate sanitation facilities.

    This decisive measure aims to combat the persistent scourge of open defecation, a grave concern that continues to imperil public health and environmental sustainability in various parts of the country.

    Speaking at the launch of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Voluntary National Report, President Mahama emphasized the imperative of stringent enforcement of building regulations to ensure that all new residential, commercial, and public structures are equipped with functional toilet facilities. “It is utterly unacceptable that in 2025, open defecation persists in parts of Ghana,” he declared.

    “This is not merely a public health issue; it is a matter of human dignity and social equity. Our sanitation crisis is not precipitated by a lack of knowledge, but rather by glaring gaps in investment, enforcement, and community engagement. We must act with unwavering resolve to eradicate this practice.” The President expressed dismay that despite existing by-laws stipulating sanitation facilities as a prerequisite for building permits, the problem persists. “All district assemblies have enshrined in their by-laws that you cannot obtain a building permit without providing sanitation facilities. So, how is it that people are still defecating in the open—what many jokingly refer to as ‘free range’? The most disturbing part is that some say they prefer it because they get ‘air conditioning at their rear end.’” Mahama urged local authorities to live up to their mandates and crack down on non-compliance, stressing that “the district assemblies must enforce their by-laws with an iron fist. No one should be allowed to build without sanitation facilities.”

    This directive underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the sanitation crisis and promoting a healthier, more dignified living environment for all Ghanaians.

  • HIV Surge:Mahama Blames Failure in Education and Support Systems

    HIV Surge:Mahama Blames Failure in Education and Support Systems

    Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy

    Ghana’s rising HIV cases have prompted President John Dramami Mahama to express profound concern, attributing this disturbing trend to glaring gaps in communication, education, and support systems.

    His remarks come in response to the Ghana AIDS Commission’s 2024 report, which disturbingly recorded 15,290 new HIV cases, with 4,987 cases among males and 11,289 cases among adults aged 15 and above.

    Speaking at the launch of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Voluntary National Report, Mahama underscored the imperative need for a more dynamic and inclusive national response that transcends conventional awareness campaigns.

    “We are alarmed by the rising HIV rates, especially among young people. This reflects failures in communication, persistent stigma, and inadequate access to sexual health education,” he emphasized.

    Mahama stressed the paramount importance of engaging young people directly in the national response, advocating for a collaborative effort among schools, health professionals, parents, and the media.

    “Prevention is essential, but empowerment is the key,” he added, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to addressing the crisis.

    Mahama drew attention to another pressing public health concern – the increasing prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women.

    “It is said that 50% of pregnant women in Ghana suffer from some form of anaemia. This is a direct reflection of poor nutrition, inequality, and inadequate health education. Addressing this is not a choice but a necessity for our mothers’ and children’s future,” he noted, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to mitigate this pressing health issue.

  • President Mahama Launches GoldBod Taskforce, Unveils 10% Whistleblower Reward

    President Mahama Launches GoldBod Taskforce, Unveils 10% Whistleblower Reward

    Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy

     

    President John Dramani Mahama has inaugurated the GoldBod Taskforce, a specialized unit comprising personnel from the National Security, military, and other key security agencies.

    The taskforce’s primary objective is to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure the responsible management of its gold industry.

    During the inauguration ceremony at the National Security Secretariat in Accra, President Mahama announced a significant incentive for whistleblowers, stating, “Whistleblower channels are in place, and informants are eligible to receive 10% of the seized gold or the cash value. So, whistleblowers, get ready. If you blow the whistle and gold or money is recovered, you will get 10%.”

    This move aims to encourage citizens to report suspicious activities and collaborate with the authorities to curb illicit gold trading.

    He emphasized that the taskforce’s establishment demonstrates NDC administration’s commitment to tackling corruption and ensuring accountability in the extractive sector.

    He highlighted the rigorous training, vetting, and orientation that taskforce members have undergone, including polygraph testing and anti-corruption training, to ensure their professionalism and integrity.

    To ensure accountability, taskforce members will operate under strict oversight, wearing body cameras during operations and utilizing GPS-tracked vehicles monitored in real-time.

    He added , all field operations will require proper authorization, with a written warrant from the CEO necessary before any action is taken. “A written warrant from the CEO is required before any field operation is undertaken,” he cautioned.

     

    Undoubtedly, with the GoldBod Taskforce now operational, President Mahama has sent a strong message that his administration will not tolerate gold smuggling and corruption, and those who provide credible information will be rewarded for their efforts.

  • Breaking Barriers to Education: President Mahama Launches ‘No Fees Stress’ Policy

    Breaking Barriers to Education: President Mahama Launches ‘No Fees Stress’ Policy

    Story by Phalonzy

    President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the “No Fees Stress” policy, a landmark initiative aimed at making tertiary education accessible to all Ghanaians, regardless of their financial background.

    Speaking at the launch event in Koforidua, Eastern Region, the President announced that academic user fees have been cleared for an initial 15,000 first-year tertiary students.

    “This is just the beginning,” President Mahama emphasized, reiterating his administration’s unrelenting commitment to bridging the financial gap in tertiary education.

    “Let it be known across this land that, from today, no Ghanaian child will be denied tertiary education simply because they cannot afford the academic fees,” he declared.

    He underscored the significance of this policy in building a more just society, where every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

    “This is the path to a more just society. This is how we build a future where no dream is deferred, and no potential is wasted,” he stated.

    The “No Fees Stress” policy is a flagship initiative designed to eliminate financial barriers to tertiary education in Ghana. Under this programme, the state will cover academic-related fees for all first-year students enrolled in public tertiary institutions, starting from the 2025 academic year. This bold move is set to revolutionize access to higher education, empowering countless students to pursue their academic aspirations without the burden of financial constraints.

  • NDC’s Governance Style Likely to Keep NPP in Opposition for a Long Time – Isaac Kwasi Apatsea

    NDC’s Governance Style Likely to Keep NPP in Opposition for a Long Time – Isaac Kwasi Apatsea

    Story by Phalonzy

    Isaac Kwasi Apatsea, a former Constituency Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Upper Denkyira Constituency, has posited that the current governance style of President John Mahama and the NDC is poised to keep the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in opposition for an extended period.

    Apatsea attributes this prognosis to the fresh energy and dynamism that President Mahama has injected into governance, which has effectively rendered the NPP’s tenure under President Akufo-Addo ineffectual. According to him, the NDC’s governance model has brought about significant progress, marked by the fulfillment of key campaign promises.

    Under President Mahama’s leadership, the NDC has made notable strides in delivering on its promises. Within the first 14 days in office, Mahama nominated his complete list of Cabinet Ministers for parliamentary approval, constituting a lean and efficient government. A robust code of conduct and standards for government officials was also established, setting a new tone for accountability and transparency.

    One of the hallmarks of the NDC’s governance has been its commitment to tax reforms. Draconian taxes such as the E-levy, COVID levy, 10% levy on bet winnings, and Emissions levy have been scrapped, providing much-needed relief to citizens and businesses. Additionally, the administration has initiated a review of taxes and levies on vehicles and equipment imported for industrial and agricultural purposes, aimed at stimulating economic growth.

    The NDC’s governance style has also prioritized education and job creation. A national consultative conference on education was convened, and the ‘No-Academic-Fee’ policy for first-year students in public tertiary institutions was implemented. Furthermore, priority job creation programs like ‘Adwumawura’, ‘National Apprenticeship Programme’, and ‘One Million Coders Programme’ were launched, underscoring the administration’s commitment to empowering the youth.

    The NDC’s governance has also been marked by a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The ‘Tree for Life’ and Blue Water Initiative’ was rolled out to address environmental degradation, while efforts to purge state security agencies of militia and vigilante elements are underway.

    The much-anticipated 24-Hour Economy policy, a flagship initiative of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has also been officially launched July 2, 2025, marking a paramount move towards transforming the country’s economic landscape. This bold endeavor aims to drive economic transformation, enhance productivity, and tackle unemployment through round-the-clock operations in key sectors such as manufacturing, agro-processing, healthcare, transportation, and retail.

    Described as a “game changer” by the government, the policy is expected to create thousands of new jobs, increase national output, and unlock value across supply chains. Companies that enroll in the program will benefit from tax incentives, access to stable electricity, and enhanced nighttime security, fostering a conducive business environment.

    According to IMANI Africa’s critical analysis, 50% of the NDC’s promises have been fully delivered, with 42% in progress and 8% remaining unfulfilled.

    Ghanaians have praised President Mahama’s progress, stating that the administration has made commendable strides in delivering on its promises. Ultimately, as the NDC continues to chart a new course for Ghana’s development, it is clear that its governance style is poised to redefine the country’s trajectory.

  • From Slogan to Strategy: John Mahama Unveils 24-Hour Economy Plan

    From Slogan to Strategy: John Mahama Unveils 24-Hour Economy Plan

    Story by Phalonzy

     

    President John Dramani Mahama has launched the 24-Hour Economy policy, catapulting the country into a new era of economic vibrancy and inclusivity. This visionary initiative has evolved from a mere campaign slogan into a comprehensive national strategy, designed to turbocharge productivity and drive economic growth that benefits all segments of society.

    Mahama declared, “We have moved from slogan to strategy today. In 2024, the idea of a 24-hour economy captured national attention. It became a slogan of hope, a symbol that change was necessary and that it was possible.”

    He emphasized that the policy’s success hinges on meticulous implementation, stating, “Our task now is to ensure that the necessary change is with the implementation. This launch is not the end, but it is the beginning of a massive national mobilisation.”

    At its core, the 24-Hour Economy policy seeks to unlock the nation’s latent productivity potential, fostering a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and competitiveness. He added that, by harnessing the power of a 24-hour economy, Ghana can create a plethora of opportunities for the unemployed teeming youth, stimulate investment, and bolster its global competitiveness.

    Mahama was keen to dispel misconceptions surrounding the policy, clarifying that the 24-Hour Economy initiative is not merely about extending working hours, but rather about unleashing the country’s productivity potential.

    “Let me be clear here, the 24+ Agenda is not just about extending working hours. It is about unleashing productivity, expanding opportunities, and accelerating export through well-structured and inclusive interventions.”

    Indeed, as the country strides on this bold economic experiment, the government will play a facilitative role, providing a conducive environment for the private sector to thrive. With its sights set on transforming the country’s economic landscape, the 24-Hour Economy policy promises to be a game-changer, repositioning Ghana as a hub of economic activity and innovation across board.

  • President John Dramani Mahama’s Economic Stewardship Earns Overwhelming Public Endorsement

    President John Dramani Mahama’s Economic Stewardship Earns Overwhelming Public Endorsement

    Story by Phalonzy

    A recent national tracking poll conducted by Global InfoAnalytics has unequivocally demonstrated that President Mahama’s economic stewardship has garnered immense public confidence, with an overwhelming 74% of Ghanaians expressing their unequivocal approval of his economic management strategies.

    Conversely, a paltry 18% have voiced their disapproval. Moreover, John mahama”s job creation initiatives have received broad-based support, with 67% of respondents enthusiastically endorsing his efforts, while 22% have registered their dissent.

    The government’s resolute approach to combating the pernicious scourge of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, has also received significant approbation, with 65% of respondents expressing satisfaction and 24% voicing disapproval.

    When queried about the causal factors underlying Ghana’s current economic conditions, 62% of voters attributed the challenges to the Mahama administration’s policies, while 23% pointed to the antecedent Akufo-Addo government, and 15% remained ambivalent.

    President Mahama’s performance in specific areas was evaluated through a nuanced assessment, with respondents rating his efforts on a scale of 1 to 10. He garnered impressive scores, including 7.0 for his dexterous stabilization of the cedi, 6.6 for his judicious economic management and the rollout of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) task force, 6.5 for his effective stabilization of prices of goods and services, 6.0 for his concerted efforts to stabilize utility prices and address the galamsey menace, 5.8 for his initiatives to mitigate power outages, and 5.6 for his job creation endeavors.

    The now-suspended Dumsor Levy also featured prominently in the poll results, with 55% of respondents endorsing the initiative, 22% opposing it, and 23% remaining neutral.

    Notably, the outlook on living standards was characterized by an overwhelming sense of optimism, with 59% of respondents reporting a marked improvement in their standard of living compared to the same period last year, while 12% reported a decline, 25% noted no discernible change, and 11% offered no opinion.

    The findings signify a paradigmatic shift in public sentiment, underscoring the momentum behind President Mahama’s reform agenda and rising voter expectations as his administration embarks on its next phase.”

  • 24-Hour Economy Policy set to launch Today

    24-Hour Economy Policy set to launch Today

    Story by Phalonzy

    The much anticipated 24-Hour Economy policy, a flagship initiative of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is set to be officially launched today, July 2, 2025, marking a paramount move towards transforming the country’s economic landscape.

    This bold endeavor aims to drive economic transformation, enhance productivity, and tackle unemployment through round-the-clock operations in key sectors such as manufacturing, agro-processing, healthcare, transportation, and retail.

    Described as a “game changer” by the government, the policy is expected to create thousands of new jobs, increase national output, and unlock value across supply chains. Companies that enroll in the program will benefit from tax incentives, access to stable electricity, and enhanced nighttime security, fostering a conducive business environment.

    The policy’s framework, outlined by Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy, Goosie Tanoh, is built on three core pillars: transforming production, improving supply chains and market systems, and strengthening human capital.

    “These foundational anchors are supported by eight strategic sub-programmes,” Tanoh explained. Key components include initiatives focused on agricultural modernization, industrial and manufacturing growth, logistics and supply chain improvement, and Security and Productivity initiatives, all designed to propel Ghana’s economic growth ².

    A significant aspect of the policy is the integration of digital skills into the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system, aimed at preparing youth for emerging job opportunities.

    Additionally, the “Show Ghana” initiative seeks to leverage the country’s cultural heritage for tourism and foreign revenue generation, further diversifying the economy.

    However, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, while expressing support for the program, has urged the government to seek legislative backing to ensure its sustainability.

    He recommends that the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat work with Parliament to draft and pass a bill that would institutionalize the policy, protecting it from potential discontinuation under future administrations.