President John Dramani Mahama says Ghana must adopt a radically different approach to governance, leadership, and national development, emphasising that the country stands at a critical crossroads where traditional methods are no longer sufficient.
Speaking at the Executive Leadership Programme (ELP) held in Ada from 23rd to 26th April 2025, Mahama emphasised that Ghana’s future success hinges on bold, innovative leadership and an inclusive national vision.
“Ghana stands at a crossroads, faced with diverse challenges. We must lead differently, think differently, and act differently, as the true measure of our success is the lives we touch and the legacy we leave behind,” President Mahama stated.
Organised by the Government of Ghana in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the ELP was held under the theme “Re-imagining Leadership in a ‘Reset’ Ghana” and brought together senior government officials, ministers, advisors, development partners, and private sector leaders.
The programme marked a pivotal moment following Ghana’s recent democratic transition and the formation of a new cabinet.
President Mahama stressed the importance of unity and continuity in national development, regardless of which political party is in power.
The Executive Leadership Programme was structured around four thematic modules—Leading in a New World of Accelerated Change, Leading Systems in a VUCA World, Leading Self and Others, and Leading to Deliver Results. These sessions were designed to help participants rethink how leadership must evolve in the face of uncertainty, complexity, and rapid global transformation.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, a keynote speaker, echoed Mahama’s sentiments, stressing the importance of education and innovation in national development.
“We need focused, consistent leadership and a reimagined approach to our educational systems. We must not only invest in technology but also in the people who will create it,” he said.
UNDP Africa Regional Director Ahunna Eziakonwa also called on Ghanaian leaders to seize the opportunity to build a new leadership culture rooted in empathy, inclusivity, and accountability.
“Let us seize this opportunity to reimagine leadership, not just for today, but for the Ghana we are building together,**” she said.
The programme, the first of its kind in Ghana under the new Regional Leadership Programme for Africa, ended with a shared commitment among participants to adopt more collaborative, forward-looking governance approaches. It also set the stage for future engagement between the Government of Ghana, the UNDP, and other stakeholders in advancing inclusive and sustainable development.
Read the full statement on the Executive Leadership Programme here
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