Mahama Ends $15m Annual Rent for Ghana’s Foreign Missions

President John Dramani Mahama has announced an end to Ghana’s annual expenditure of over $15 million on renting properties abroad for its diplomatic missions, describing the practice as both wasteful and unsustainable.

Speaking at the swearing-in of newly appointed Ambassadors and envoys on Thursday, September 4, 2025, the President revealed that government has adopted a new framework—the Strategic Transition from Rental to Developing (STRIDE) policy—under the Reset Agenda to tackle the issue.

“Ghana cannot continue spending more than $15 million every year on renting properties abroad for diplomatic use. This is not a prudent use of taxpayers’ resources, and the Reset Agenda provides an immediate reversal of this trend,” he said.

According to him, Cabinet has already approved the STRIDE policy, with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Finance directed to fast-track its implementation.

He disclosed that a transaction advisor has been appointed, standard development plans are underway, and funding arrangements are currently being negotiated.

President Mahama explained that the initiative will ensure Ghana’s missions abroad are accommodated in state-owned properties, cutting unnecessary costs while projecting a stronger national image internationally.

“This shift will guarantee that our embassies and missions operate from properties owned by the Republic, curbing wasteful expenditure and protecting Ghana’s dignity on the global stage,” he added.