John Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s fourth president under the Fourth Republic, has had a storied career in politics that spans over two decades. Born on November 29, 1958, in Damongo, Ghana, Mahama’s journey to the presidency was marked by his dedication to public service and his commitment to the development of Ghana.
Early Life and Education
Mahama’s early life was shaped by his family’s strong values and commitment to education. His father, Emmanuel Adama Mahama, was a wealthy rice farmer and teacher who served as the first Member of Parliament for the West Gonja constituency. Mahama’s mother, Abiba Nnaba, was a homemaker who ensured that her children received a good education.
Mahama received his primary education at the Accra Newtown Experimental School and later attended Achimota Primary School. He completed his secondary education at Ghana Secondary School in Tamale, Northern region. Mahama then proceeded to the University of Ghana, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history in 1981 and a postgraduate diploma in communication studies in 1986 ¹.
Entry into Politics
Mahama’s entry into politics was marked by his election as the Member of Parliament for the Bole/Bamboi constituency in 1996. He served in this capacity until 2009, during which time he also held various ministerial positions, including Deputy Minister of Communications and Minister of Communications.
In 2009, Mahama was sworn in as the Vice President of Ghana, serving under President John Evans Atta Mills. Following President Mills’ death in 2012, Mahama took over as President of Ghana, becoming the first vice president to assume the presidency after the death of the incumbent ¹.
Presidency and Legacy
As President, Mahama oversaw several significant projects and initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth and development in Ghana. Some of his notable achievements include the expansion of the country’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and ports, as well as the implementation of policies aimed at promoting economic development and reducing poverty.
Mahama also played a key role in promoting regional integration and cooperation in West Africa. In 2014, he was elected Chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a position he held until 2015 ¹.
After leaving office in 2017, Mahama has remained active in politics and public life. In 2020, he contested the presidential election as the candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), but lost to incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Mahama has also been involved in various international initiatives and organizations, including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Advocates group, which he co-chairs. He has also written several articles and essays on various topics, including politics, economics, and environmental sustainability ¹.
In conclusion, John Dramani Mahama’s life and career are a testament to his dedication to public service and his commitment to the development of Ghana. As a former President of Ghana, Mahama’s legacy continues to shape the country’s politics and economy, and his ongoing involvement in international initiatives and organizations ensures that his voice and expertise remain relevant in the global arena.
Source: Thepressradio.com| BA
