News Guide Africa

Tag: Julius Debrah

  • Chief of Staff receives National Council of Zongo Chiefs delegation 

     

    ​The National Council of Zongo Chiefs yesterday, June 11, paid a high-profile courtesy call on His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama to formally congratulate him on his recent election victory.

    ​The Chief of Staff received the traditional rulers at the Jubilee House on behalf of the President, who was indisposed with other pressing state engagements.

    ​Warm Welcome and Strategic Vision

    ​The delegation was warmly welcomed by Alhaji Babalami Abu Sadat, the Presidential Coordinator for Inner City and Zongo Development. In his opening remarks, Alhaji Sadat expressed profound gratitude to the revered traditional leaders for their visit, stating that their presence reinforces the strong bond between the government and the Zongo communities across the country. He assured them of the administration’s unwavering commitment to inclusive development.

    ​National Concerns Tabled

    ​Beyond the expressions of goodwill and congratulations, the Council of Zongo Chiefs utilized the platform to present a memorandum highlighting critical issues of national concern that require urgent government attention. While specific details of the petition remain close to the chest of the leadership, sources close to the meeting indicate that the issues center heavily on:
    ​Infrastructure: The acceleration of roads, drainage, and social amenities within inner cities.
    ​Education and Youth Empowerment: Enhanced educational support systems and sustainable job creation opportunities for the youth in Zongo communities.
    ​Peace and Security: Strategies for maintaining social cohesion and countering emerging security threats.


    ​Government’s Assurance

    ​Responding to the delegation, the Chief of Staff commended the National Council of Zongo Chiefs for their leadership, wisdom, and proactive approach to national development.
    ​”The government views the Zongo communities not just as electoral partners, but as vital pillars in the socio-economic fabric of Ghana. Every concern raised here today will be delivered directly to the desk of His Excellency President Mahama, and you can rest assured that strategic steps will be taken to address them,” the Chief of Staff stated.

    ​The meeting concluded with an exchange of pleasantries and group photographs, symbolizing a renewed partnership between the state executive and traditional authorities aimed at pushing forward the boundaries of community development.

  • Chief of Staff champions Africa’s energy future at AETC 2026

    Chief of Staff champions Africa’s energy future at AETC 2026

    By Adnan Adams Mohammed

    Accra took centre stage last week as the highly anticipated Africa Energy Technology Conference (AETC) 2026 officially kicked off, firmly positioning Ghana at the forefront of the continent’s energy transition and industrial future.

    Serving as the Special Guest of Honor, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, attended the high-level gathering on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama. His presence heavily underscored the Mahama administration’s strategic commitment to transforming Ghana into the ultimate gateway for energy technology, innovation, and intra-African trade.

    The prestigious event brought together a powerhouse assembly of over 1,500 delegates, 55 African energy ministers, policymakers, global investors, and tech pioneers. Amidst the heavy concentration of continental leadership, Hon. Julius Debrah was widely regarded as the man of the moment.

    Known for his disciplined, humble, and results-driven approach, the Chief of Staff brought immense credibility, focus, and statesmanship to the international summit.

    “Ghana’s energy transition must not merely adapt to global trends, but must be driven by homegrown innovation, youth, and women’s participation.”

    In his engagements with delegates, the Chief of Staff emphasized that Africa’s transition must rely heavily on local talent. As he continues to steer the government machinery with quiet dedication, competence, and a collaborative spirit, attendees at the conference noted that his leadership style provides the stability and vision needed for long-term economic growth.

    With Ghana successfully hosting this landmark summit and rallying continental consensus, industry experts agree that the future of the nation’s energy security and industrial takeoff looks more secure than ever.

    The conference was expected to continue throughout the week, with a heavy focus on:

    ● Green technology deployment across sub-Saharan Africa.

    ● Regional grid integration to curb energy poverty.

    ● Bilateral trade agreements leveraging the AfCFTA framework.

     

     

     

     

  • Julius Debrah applauded as Kwahu Business Forum transforms into ‘International Convention of Investors’

    Julius Debrah applauded as Kwahu Business Forum transforms into ‘International Convention of Investors’

    By Adnan Adams Mohammed

    President John Dramani Mahama has lauded Mr. Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff, for his visionary leadership and instrumental role in the establishment and expansion of the Kwahu Business Forum.

    ​Addressing attendees at the 2026 edition of the forum in Mpraeso, Eastern Region, the President described Mr. Debrah as the “driving force” and his “co-conspirator” in transforming the traditional Kwahu Easter festivities into a high-level economic platform.

    ​The President noted that the forum was born out of a shared vision to harness the massive influx of people to the Kwahu area during the Easter holidays. Instead of purely social celebrations, Mr. Debrah proposed a structured dialogue to focus on investment and national development.

    ​“My friend and co-conspirator, Julius Debrah, conceived the idea that as we gather in Kwahu to celebrate, we must also create a business forum focused on Ghana’s economic future,” President Mahama stated.

    ​Since its launch in 2024, the forum has rapidly evolved. Now in its third year, it has grown from a local stakeholder engagement into one of Ghana’s premier annual economic gatherings, attracting policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs from across the country.

    ​Infrastructure and Future Growth

    ​In a move to institutionalize the forum’s impact, President Mahama announced ambitious infrastructure projects aimed at turning Kwahu into a permanent hub for international conferences and business tourism.

    ​He revealed that the government is partnering with private sector giants, including Metalex and Trasacco, to build a state-of-the-art convention, conference, and exhibition center at the current site.

    ​”We want to take this whole thing a step further,” the President said. “We are working with Metalex and Trasacco to build a permanent convention, conference, and exhibition centre on this site.”

    ​Furthermore, the President announced plans for the construction of an airstrip in the vicinity. This facility is expected to facilitate seamless travel for domestic and international participants, making Kwahu more accessible to high-profile investors and conference organizers.

    ​The Kwahu Business Forum

    ​The Kwahu Business Forum serves as a non-partisan platform designed to foster networking, investment matchmaking, and policy dialogue. By blending cultural heritage with industrialization goals, the forum has become a cornerstone for discussing Ghana’s private sector development and economic growth.

    ​The event continues at the Kwahu Convention Centre in Mpraeso, bringing together business leaders to deliberate on the future of Ghana’s industrial landscape.

  • KWAHU RISING: Ghana signals manufacturing ambition as Easter festivities blend culture with commerce

    Chief of Staff Julius Debrah

     

     

    ​By Adnan Adams Mohammed

    ​While thousands of revellers ascended the steep winding roads of the Kwahu ridge for the annual adrenaline-fueled Easter Paragliding Festival, a different kind of momentum was building in the valley below.

    ​At the 2026 Kwahu Business Forum, the Government of Ghana issued a bold proclamation: the nation is no longer content with being just a gateway to West Africa; it is ready to become its industrial heartbeat.

    ​A Vision for Industrial Sovereignty

    ​Addressing a gathering of investors, traditional leaders, and entrepreneurs, the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, representing the Presidency, outlined a strategic roadmap to transform Ghana into a dominant manufacturing hub within the sub-region.

    ​The forum, held against the backdrop of the serene Kwahu landscape, served as a platform to pitch Ghana’s readiness for large-scale industrialization. The Chief of Staff emphasized that the government is prioritizing the “Made in Ghana” agenda, aiming to reduce the nation’s reliance on imports by incentivizing local production of essential goods.

    ​”Our goal is clear,” the Hon Debrah stated. “We are leveraging our stable political climate, our strategic position within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and our youthful workforce to ensure that when West Africa thinks of manufacturing, it thinks of Ghana.”

    ​Key to this strategy is the expansion of the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative and the development of specialized industrial parks that offer tax breaks and reliable energy to manufacturers.

    ​The Kwahu Advantage

    ​The dual nature of this year’s Easter—combining the thrill of the paragliding festival with the seriousness of the Business Forum—highlights a shift in how the Kwahu region is perceived. Traditionally seen as a seasonal retreat, Kwahu is being rebranded as a year-round destination for “bleisure”—business and leisure.

    ​Investors at the forum expressed optimism about the proposed manufacturing hub status, citing the potential for agro-processing and light manufacturing to thrive in the Eastern Region.

    ​As the colorful parachutes dot the Kwahu sky this weekend, they represent more than just a tourist attraction; they symbolize a nation looking upward and outward, aiming to turn its cultural heritage into an industrial powerhouse for the 21st century.

    ​Security Meets Celebration

    ​The high-stakes economic discussions were mirrored by a robust security presence on the ground. As the Kwahu Easter Paragliding Festival officially took off at the Odweanoma Mountain, the atmosphere was one of disciplined celebration.

    ​Following security concerns in previous years, the 2026 festivities have seen an unprecedented deployment of personnel. Drones hovered above the paragliding site, and police checkpoints were strategically positioned along the ascent to Mpraeso and Abetifi.

    ​”Security is the bedrock of tourism and investment,” a senior police official noted. “We are here to ensure that while the paragliders soar in the skies, the people on the ground feel safe to celebrate and, more importantly, to do business.”

    ​Key Highlights from the Kwahu Business Forum 2026:

    ​Regional Dominance: Aiming to become the manufacturing centerpiece for the ECOWAS market.

    ​Infrastructure: Committing to enhanced road networks and energy stability for industrial zones.

    Safety First: Increased security presence to bolster investor confidence during high-profile events.

     

  • Chief of Staff Julius Debrah Tasks World Cup Committee to Safeguard Ghana’s Image

    Chief of Staff Julius Debrah Tasks World Cup Committee to Safeguard Ghana’s Image

    Ghana’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has urged the newly inaugurated 2026 World Cup Ministerial Oversight Committee to take firm control of travel coordination and protect the country’s international reputation ahead of the tournament in the United States.

     

    Speaking at the Jubilee House on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, Mr. Debrah reminded the 11-member committee that its responsibilities go beyond football festivities. He cautioned that past challenges with visa processing and unauthorized travel had occasionally tarnished Ghana’s image, stressing that the upcoming World Cup presents an opportunity to correct those lapses.

     

    “We are tasking you to coordinate travel arrangements thoroughly. We often run into difficulties with visas, and as you know, some individuals try to take advantage of the system and abscond, which reflects poorly on the country,” he said.

     

    He further urged the committee to work closely with U.S. consular officials to ensure that genuine supporters are able to travel to cheer on the Black Stars without incident. “The committee must make time to engage the relevant officials at the American Embassy so that Ghanaians who genuinely intend to support the team are given the chance to do so,” he added.

     

    Beyond logistics and fan travel, Mr. Debrah emphasized that the World Cup offers Ghana a global platform to showcase more than its football culture. He challenged the committee to highlight the country’s economic prospects, tourism attractions, and broader national identity during the tournament.

     

    “This is an opportunity to market our investment potential to the world. It shouldn’t be only about football,” he noted. “What can we associate with our presence there? Let the world see Ghana as a place of opportunity. Promoting our tourism is a key part of that, and if we present ourselves well, we can make the nation proud.”

     

    The committee is expected to begin work immediately as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

  • MiDA Board Inaugurated …Chief of Staff Calls for Collective Progress

     

     

    Chief of Staff, Hon Julius Debrah, has formally inaugurated the Board of Directors of the Millennium Development Authority (MiDA), impassioning the newly appointed members to rally behind the organization’s Chief Executive, Alexander Kofi-Mensah Mould, in propelling the authority’s objectives to unprecedented heights.

    Lauding Mould as “very innovative and progressive,”Mr. Debrah underscored the crucial role MiDA plays in the government’s overarching development agenda.

    The newly constituted board, chaired by the erudite Charles Abugre Akelyira, boasts an impressive array of luminaries, including five ministers of state: Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson (Finance), John Abdulai Jinapor (Energy), Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey (Gender, Children, and Social Protection), Dr. Dominic Ayine (Attorney General and Justice), and Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare (Trade). Other distinguished members include Alexander Kofi-Mensah Mould, John Awuah (Private Enterprise Foundation), Ralph Mawuenyega Kojo Ayitey (Association of Ghana Industries), and Ing. Dr. William Amuna.

    In a stirring address on behalf of the board’s chairperson, Minister of Energy John Abdulai Jinapor avowed the board’s unrelenting commitment to supporting President John Dramani Mahama’s “reset agenda.”

    “We are poised to help the President achieve his reset agenda, and we will do everything possible to accelerate the economic growth of the country,” Jinapor declared, underscoring the board’s resolute dedication to expediting initiatives that foster sustainable economic growth.

    Ultimately,as the newly formed board embarks on its noble mandate, it is expected to provide visionary leadership and oversight to MiDA, aligning its efforts with the government’s development priorities.

    Gleefully, with this inauguration, the stage is set for synergistic endeavors to drive progress and attain the Ghana’s development aspirations.

     

  • Julius Debrah tipped as best-fit presidential candidate for NDC 2028

    Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah

     

     

     

    By Adnan Adams Mohammed

     

    Current Chief of Staff of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, Julius Debrah, is considered a strong contender to lead the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2028 elections.

     

    Several political analysts and politicians have alluded to this assertion based on several reasons deduced from his personality and political life.

     

    Leadership Experience

    Debrah’s exemplary leadership as former and current Chief of Staff has earned him a strong reputation, showcasing his ability to manage and lead effectively.

     

    Unifying Figure

    He’s seen as a unifier who can bring people together, transcending political divides. His humility and respect for all have garnered admiration from various quarters.

    Strategic Appeal

    Debrah provides the NDC with strategic geographical appeal, helping the party align with national expectations of regional balance as a native of the Eastern Region.

     

    Persona Attributes

    He’s described as hardworking, humble, and capable of leading the NDC to victory. His calm and successful work style has earned him endorsements from various individuals, including prominent members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).

     

    Cross-Party Support

    Some NPP members, like Alex Mensah, have expressed willingness to support Debrah if he becomes the NDC flagbearer, highlighting his broad appeal.

     

    Grassroots Support

    NDC grassroots have named Debrah as their favorite candidate for the 2028 flagbearer race, citing his integrity and commitment to the party’s values.

     

    Unmatched Dedication

    He left a successful professional career to serve the party full-time, showing his unwavering loyalty.

     

    Experience That Delivers

    With a solid track record of strategic organization, electoral success, and grassroots coordination, he brings results, not just promises.

     

    Proven Results

    From mobilization to communication, Julius Debrah has delivered where it matters most, ensuring Members continues to rise in NDC national relevance.

     

    #JuliusLeads : Maintaining momentum, stability, and vision.

     

    #JuliusLeads : Protecting progress and reward performance.

     

  • IOMP a bold step to correct investment imbalance – Julius Debrah

    IOMP a bold step to correct investment imbalance – Julius Debrah

    The government has launched the Investment Opportunity Mapping Project (IOMP), a national initiative aimed at identifying and promoting viable investment opportunities across all 261 districts in Ghana.

    The government says the project is expected to complement flagship government programmes such as the 24-Hour Economy, the Big Push Infrastructure Programme, and the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda.

    Led by the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), the project is set to decentralize economic development and attract investment beyond urban centers.

    Speaking at the official launch, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah described the IOMP as a “bold and strategic” step toward addressing the imbalance in investment inflows, 76% of which currently go to Greater Accra.

    The initiative, according to the government, will provide a data-driven roadmap to guide both local and foreign investors to unlock economic potential in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, healthcare, and renewable energy.

    The move follows a decline in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from US$2.6 billion in 2020 to US$1.7 billion in 2024, as reported by UNCTAD’s 2025 World Investment Report.

    The Chief of Staff noted that the IOMP is not only about attracting foreign capital but also about empowering local investors and entrepreneurs with credible data and institutional backing.

    Regional ministers and MMDCEs have been urged to take ownership of the process by working closely with GIPC and participating in upcoming Regional Investment Roadshows.

    The Chief of Staff Julius Debrah reaffirmed the full commitment of the Office of the President to the success of the initiative, describing the IOMP as a blueprint for balanced, inclusive, and regionally grounded economic growth.

  • Working group to draft new National Anti-Corruption Strategy inaugurated

    The Government of Ghana has inaugurated a working group to develop a new National Anti-Corruption Strategy, with a strong charge to deliver bold reforms aimed at reversing the country’s declining performance in the fight against corruption.

    Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Accra, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah congratulated the members of the group on their appointment and reminded them of the critical responsibility entrusted to them.

    He noted that this next strategy comes at a pivotal moment in Ghana’s anti-corruption journey, and under the renewed leadership of President John Dramani Mahama.

    Mr. Debrah recalled that Ghana’s first National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP), passed in 2014 during President Mahama’s previous administration, helped raise awareness about corruption, encouraged whistleblowing, and drove the digitisation of key public services, including ports and financial systems.

    The period also saw an increase in operational activities from agencies like CHRAJ, the Office of the Special Prosecutor, and EOCO in investigations and asset recovery.

    However, he admitted that despite these strides, Ghana’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) score had dropped from a high of 48% in 2014 to a record low of 42% in 2024, the final year of the NACAP’s implementation.

    “One could argue that NACAP has not performed too well when it comes to the actual reduction of corruption in our country. The evidence is out there for all Ghanaians to see,” he said.

    “We have to reverse this trend, and I charge this group to ensure that the strategy does precisely that.”

    The Chief of Staff emphasised that ethics and moral integrity must be central pillars in the new strategy.

    He urged the team to depart from past assumptions and deliver a framework that delivers measurable and sustainable outcomes, describing the effort as a “shock therapy” for Ghana’s anti-corruption drive.

    The strategy, which is expected to be delivered in draft form by August 31, 2025, will be coordinated by the Office of the Presidential Advisor on the National Anti-Corruption Programme (PANACP), in collaboration with the Chief of Staff’s office and principal partners such as the Attorney- General’s office, the OSP, and CHRAJ.

    Mr. Debrah assured the team of the government’s support, promising resource allocation despite the country’s ongoing fiscal challenges.

    However, he called for prudence and accountability from the team in managing resources.

    He also expressed gratitude to CHRAJ for its decade-long leadership in coordinating Ghana’s anti-corruption agenda, pledging continued collaboration to promote human rights and administrative justice.

    “We have confidence in the technical expertise of the team that has been assembled,” he said.

    “We expect your fullest commitment to the cause,” he concluded

    The formation of the working group marks the beginning of the second phase of Ghana’s national fight against corruption, with the government pledging a more robust, technology-driven, and ethical approach to tackling the canker.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Julius Debrah: An Embodiment of Leadership, Loyalty, and Paragon of Patriotism

    By Lawrence Odoom alias Phalonzy

    For over two and a half decades, Julius Debrah has indelibly etched his name in Ghana’s national political landscape, emerging as a towering figure who embodies the virtues of loyalty, humility, and patriotism. His remarkable journey to becoming Chief of Staff for two consecutive terms has become a defining chapter in the annals of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, replete with invaluable lessons in politics, leadership, and morality.

    Hon. Julius Debrah’s ascent to prominence was not predicated on vindictiveness or performative leadership, but rather on his exceptional human relations skills and result-oriented approach. Julius Debrah’s appointment as Chief of Staff by John Dramani Mahama serves as a prove to his ability to deliver results through a charismatic and charming leadership style.

    Infact, as a seasoned politician, Julius Debrah has consistently demonstrated unrelenting loyalty to President John Dramani Mahama, standing by him through the most trying times and celebrating their triumphs. This unshakeable commitment has earned him the reputation as one of Ghana’s most trusted and loyal political allies.

    Beyond his impressive political credentials, Mr. Debrah is widely revered for his compassionate and benevolent nature.

    Undoubtedly, his humanitarian gestures have touched countless lives across the country, particularly among the vulnerable and destitute. His kindness is often exercised in silence, devoid of fanfare or expectation of recognition.

    As the conversation around his potential future leadership grows, many believe that Julius Debrah possesses the requisite qualities to ascend to the highest office in the land. His name is increasingly resonating across regions, and his ability to connect with Ghanaians at the grassroots level has earned him plaudits as a unifier.

    Ultimately, with his remarkable track record, Mr. Debrah’s potential presidency is seen as a natural progression, building on the foundations laid by his mentor, John Mahama. To separate the truth from the falsehood, as the country and the umbrella Fraternity contemplates its future leadership, Julius Debrah’s name is increasingly mentioned as a credible and capable candidate, positioned to take Ghana to greater heights.