Mahama Engages Ghanaian Diaspora in Philadelphia, Reaffirms Commitment to National Development

President John Dramani Mahama has held a high-level engagement with members of the Ghanaian community in Philadelphia, United States, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening ties with citizens living abroad.

Addressing the diaspora, President Mahama described Ghanaians overseas as a vital extension of the nation, highlighting their immense contributions through remittances—estimated at approximately US$7.8 billion annually—as well as through knowledge transfer, innovation, and global exposure.

The President used the occasion to outline key economic and governance priorities, noting ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy and drive export-led growth. He emphasised initiatives aimed at strengthening local industries and announced plans to implement a 24-hour economy policy to boost productivity and create employment opportunities across sectors.

In the area of governance, President Mahama revealed steps being taken to enhance transparency and accountability, including the development of a comprehensive national anti-corruption strategy. He also disclosed plans to establish a Gold Board to formalise gold trade and improve national revenue mobilisation.

Touching on healthcare, the President detailed a series of interventions designed to expand access and improve outcomes. These include the rollout of a free primary healthcare programme at district hospitals and Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, integration of sickle cell treatment into mainstream care, and the deployment of 6,000 health volunteers to conduct community screenings. He further announced the creation of a Ghana Medical Trust Fund to support the treatment of non-communicable diseases.

On legislative reforms, President Mahama highlighted progress on a bipartisan bill that seeks to expand political participation for Ghanaians living abroad. The proposed law would allow diaspora citizens to contest for parliamentary and ministerial positions. He expressed readiness to grant presidential assent once the bill is passed, ensuring its swift implementation.

The President also commended the Ghanaian community in Philadelphia for preserving the country’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and traditional performances. Reflecting on historical ties, he referenced Lincoln University as a key influence on the Pan-African vision of Kwame Nkrumah.

He further reaffirmed Ghana’s active role in global and regional affairs, citing engagements with the African Union and Economic Community of West African States, while announcing preparations for Ghana to assume the African Union chairmanship in 2027.

Concluding his address, President Mahama urged Ghanaians abroad to deepen their involvement in national development through investment, skills transfer, and participation in initiatives aimed at advancing Ghana’s socio-economic and cultural progress.