Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has assured Ghanaians that the Government will investigate concerns raised about the procurement processes in the implementation of its flagship infrastructure development programme, the Big Push. He highlighted ongoing efforts to address these concerns during an engagement with civil society organizations (CSOs) at the Presidency in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the President emphasized that concerns from the investigations have prompted steps to obtain full reports, assess allegations, and request responses from relevant ministries. Additionally, there are plans to amend the Public Procurement Act to limit single sourcing and promote transparency and value for money. An Independent Value for Money Office is being established to ensure rigorous review of procurement decisions, with a focus on reducing reliance on single sourcing and consulting stakeholders on proposed legislative changes.
The engagement with CSOs is framed as a practical dialogue meant to listen to viewpoints, share ideas on national priorities, and deepen collaboration between government and civil society. The presence of ministers and senior officials is intended to ensure that the interaction leads to meaningful outcomes. Similar engagements have already been organized by the Presidency for organized labour and private enterprises.
President Mahama outlined economic policies such as the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme, aimed at expanding job opportunities for young people, supporting small and medium enterprises, and promoting export-led growth. These policies are designed to address cost of living pressures, inequality, and social protection needs.
He also mentioned social sector interventions, including strengthening the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, expanding access to healthcare, and introducing apprenticeship programmes to equip young people with skills for employment. The Free Primary Healthcare Programme is set to launch on 15th April to remove financial barriers to basic healthcare, improve access at the community level, and promote preventive care.
On human rights and inclusion, the President reiterated a commitment to uphold dignity and equality while acknowledging debates around rights and social cohesion, including discussions on LGBTQ+ issues. The LGBTQ+ Bill before Parliament is identified as a Private Member's Bill undergoing national discussion, with outcomes expected to reflect the will of the people through parliamentary deliberations.
President Mahama also addressed environmental protection efforts, highlighting intensified action against illegal mining, promotion of sustainable land and water use, and strengthening environmental governance. He called for collaboration to safeguard natural resources for future generations.
Civil society is recognized as a partner in nation-building, with a commitment to maintaining open engagement, institutionalizing regular dialogue platforms, and ensuring that diverse perspectives inform policymaking. The passage of the Governance Advisory Bill is noted as a step toward participatory governance, creating a formal structure for continuous citizen and stakeholder input into decision-making processes.
On the international stage, the President stated that Ghana continues to advocate for justice, including the recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as a grave crime against humanity. Ghana is also engaged in broader discussions on global accountability and reform of international systems. Within the sub-region, there is a commitment to regional integration, democratic governance, and peace and security through engagement within ECOWAS, while responding to evolving dynamics such as the emergence of the Alliance of Sahelian States.
At the continental level, Ghana actively participates in the African Union with a focus on Agenda 2063, peace and security, and strengthening Africa's role in global affairs. President Mahama concluded that the dialogue is intended to continue beyond the session through structured follow-ups, monitoring systems, and sustained collaboration to build a fairer, more inclusive, and prosperous Ghana through collective effort and continuous engagement.