Mahama: Ghana must do things differently to succeed

President John Dramani Mahama believes Ghana needs a new approach to governance. He stated that traditional methods are no longer enough.

Speaking at the Executive Leadership Programme (ELP) in Ada, he emphasized the importance of innovative leadership. The event took place from April 23rd to 26th, 2025. Mahama said Ghana's future success depends on an inclusive national vision.

"Ghana stands at a crossroads with many challenges," he noted. "We must lead differently and act differently." He added that true success is measured by the lives we impact.

The ELP was organized by the Government of Ghana and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It focused on “Re-imagining Leadership in a ‘Reset’ Ghana.” Senior government officials, ministers, advisors, and private sector leaders attended.

Mahama highlighted unity and continuity in national development. This is important regardless of which political party is in power. The programme included four 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 aimed to help participants rethink leadership amid uncertainty and rapid change. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan was a keynote speaker. He stressed education and innovation as key to national development.

"We need focused leadership and a reimagined educational system," he said. "Investing in technology means investing in people too."

UNDP Africa Regional Director Ahunna Eziakonwa urged Ghanaian leaders to build a new culture of leadership. She called for empathy, inclusivity, and accountability among leaders.

"Let us reimagine leadership for the Ghana we are building together," she stated. The programme concluded with participants committing to collaborative governance approaches.

It also set the stage for future cooperation between the Government of Ghana, UNDP, and other stakeholders for sustainable development.