Ghana president reduces ministries to cut governance costs

In an effort to reduce governance expenses, Ghana's President John Mahama has declared a reshuffle in his administration, decreasing the number of ministries.

This decision was communicated in a circular dated January 9, just two days after Mahama assumed office on January 7, 2025.

He has reduced the number of ministries from 30 to 23 by either eliminating or merging seven ministries.

The ministries affected include: the Ministry of Information, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, the Ministry of Chieftaincy, the Ministry of Works and Housing, the Ministry of National Security, and the Ministry of Railways.

This cost-cutting initiative comes as Ghana implements austerity measures under Mahama's leadership, following years of economic difficulties characterized by high inflation and a declining currency, which led the government to seek financial assistance from international lenders.

Mahama, who previously held the presidency from 2012 to 2017, returned to power after winning the 2024 elections.