Mahama Pledges Stronger Diaspora Role in Governance and Investment

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening diaspora engagement, announcing his readiness to assent to a bipartisan bill that will allow Ghanaians living abroad to fully participate in the country’s political administration.

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening diaspora engagement, announcing his readiness to assent to a bipartisan bill that will allow Ghanaians living abroad to fully participate in the country’s political administration.

Speaking during a Diaspora Dialogue with Ghanaians in Philadelphia, the President revealed that government is actively sponsoring legislation aimed at removing long-standing barriers that prevent diaspora members from contributing meaningfully to governance. The proposed law will enable qualified Ghanaians abroad to take up roles in public service without being required to renounce their citizenship.

According to President Mahama, the move forms part of a broader strategy to integrate the diaspora more deeply into national development and decision-making processes.

In addition, the President disclosed plans to introduce a complementary investment framework that will allow Ghanaians abroad to directly support national development through diaspora bonds. These bonds are expected to offer competitive returns while channeling funds into key sectors of the economy.

Highlighting the economic significance of the diaspora, President Mahama noted that remittances remain a vital pillar of Ghana’s economy. He revealed that inflows reached approximately $7.8 billion in 2025, making remittances the second-highest source of foreign exchange earnings after gold.

He urged Ghanaians living abroad to continue investing in strategic sectors, emphasizing that their contributions are essential to sustaining economic growth and national development.

The engagement in Philadelphia forms part of ongoing efforts by the government to strengthen ties with the Ghanaian diaspora and harness their expertise, capital, and global networks for the country’s progress.