In the first three months of his presidency in 2025, President John Dramani Mahama focused on several critical areas aimed at addressing Ghana’s immediate economic challenges, strengthening governance, and implementing social reforms.
1. Economic Stabilization and IMF Negotiations
Upon assuming office, Mahama prioritized economic stabilization. He initiated a “National Economic Dialogue” to reassess Ghana’s existing $3 billion agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), aiming to ensure that the program aligns with the nation’s development needs while maintaining fiscal discipline (Financial Times).
2. Implementation of a 24-Hour Economy
In an effort to drive economic growth and create jobs, Mahama rolled out plans for a 24-hour economy. This policy encourages businesses and public institutions to operate in three shifts throughout the day, particularly focusing on sectors such as agro-processing, manufacturing, and hospitality. This initiative is seen as a way to boost productivity and reduce unemployment (Pulse Ghana).
3. Governance Reforms and Anti-Corruption Measures
Mahama demonstrated a commitment to improving governance by revoking the appointments of all Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to streamline local governance. Additionally, he reduced the number of ministries from 30 to 23, aiming to enhance governmental efficiency. Mahama also vowed to address unresolved criminal cases, including those related to electoral violence, to reinforce the rule of law and strengthen the nation’s democratic institutions (Modern Ghana; Ghana Politics Online).
4. Social Initiatives in Education and Healthcare
In education, Mahama introduced a “No-Academic-Fee” policy for first-year students at public tertiary institutions and committed to providing free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools. Additionally, he reaffirmed support for the Free Senior High School (SHS) program and aimed to eliminate the double-track system, while expanding Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education (GH Standard). In healthcare, Mahama launched the Free Primary Healthcare Programme and established the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCare) to combat non-communicable diseases (GH Standard).
5. Infrastructure and Transport Development
Mahama’s government reintroduced road tolls, leveraging modern technology for better management. Additionally, the administration conducted feasibility studies to develop coastal water transport services. Notably, plans were unveiled to transform the Ho Airport into a training academy for pilots and an aircraft maintenance hub (GH Standard).
These efforts reflect President Mahama’s immediate actions to address Ghana’s pressing challenges while laying the groundwork for long-term economic and social development.
Sources:
https://www.ft.com/content/82209d29-f2e6-4cba-8568-0597abec9744?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/news/politics/6-key-policies-john-mahama-has-promised-to-implement-as-president-2024120811334262629
https://www.modernghana.com/news/1371149/president-john-mahamas-first-five-days-a-new.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://ghanapoliticsonline.com/2025/02/10/john-mahmas-120-day-social-contract-key-achievements-in-just-one-month/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
SUMMARY: What John Mahama said in 2025 State of the Nation Address