Ghana is set to enhance its presidential travel capabilities with the procurement of new aircraft, expected by November 2026. The announcement, made by Dr. Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to former President John Dramani Mahama, forms part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the country’s aviation infrastructure and retool the Ghana Armed Forces.
According to Dr. Mahama, the addition of new aircraft will allow Ghana to rely fully on state-owned assets for the safe and efficient transportation of its president. Currently, public concerns have emerged over the president’s temporary use of a private jet belonging to his brother, Ibrahim Mahama, for official travel. Dr. Mahama addressed these concerns, emphasizing that the private jet arrangement is temporary and will no longer be necessary once the new aircraft join the fleet.
Dr. Mahama pointed out that the decision to acquire the new aircraft is part of a broader strategy to improve the country’s aviation sector and reduce reliance on private arrangements. The expansion of the presidential fleet aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at modernizing the Ghana Armed Forces and increasing the country’s self-reliance.
“By November, we expect to have additional aircraft in the presidential fleet, including one specifically dedicated to the president’s travel,” Dr. Mahama stated. The initiative will allow the government to ensure stable, efficient, and cost-effective transportation for the president, eliminating the need for temporary and controversial travel arrangements.
Dr. Mahama also acknowledged the economic challenges facing Ghanaians, noting that decisions regarding presidential travel are carefully weighed against the need for prudent governance.
The acquisition of the new aircraft is intended to create a more stable and self-sufficient arrangement for the country’s leadership while minimizing public expenditure.
Metrotvonline
