President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive and balanced national development following a high-level engagement with the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs.
The courtesy call, led by Nene Sakite II, provided a platform for the President to outline what he described as steady economic progress. He pointed to improving macroeconomic stability, declining inflation, a strengthening currency, and Ghana’s ability to meet its debt obligations despite ongoing global economic pressures.
President Mahama also disclosed ongoing efforts to operationalize the University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences (UEAS) at Bunso. He emphasized that this initiative forms part of broader strategic investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and local governance aimed at accelerating development across regions.
A key highlight of the engagement was the government’s decision to uncap the District Assembly Common Fund, a policy the President said will allow Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to retain up to 80% of their allocations. According to him, this will empower local authorities to drive development projects, including the rollout of 24-hour economy markets to stimulate economic activity.
Despite these gains, the President acknowledged that youth unemployment remains a pressing concern. He stressed the need for stronger private sector growth, industrial expansion, and increased investment in agriculture as pathways to sustainable job creation.
On healthcare, President Mahama assured the chiefs of government’s commitment to completing the Eastern Regional Hospital project. He further announced plans to commence three new hospital projects nationwide to improve access to quality healthcare services.
He reiterated that flagship initiatives such as Free Primary Health Care and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares) will remain central to enhancing the wellbeing of citizens, alongside continued expansion of health infrastructure.
President Mahama concluded by expressing appreciation for the support of traditional authorities, emphasizing that strong collaboration between government and chieftaincy institutions is essential for achieving sustainable national development.
Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of The Accra Daily Mail, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
