At the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa, President John Dramani Mahama was appointed First Vice Chair of the African Union Bureau. This position elevates Ghana’s influence and strengthens its strategic role in shaping continental policy and governance.
The appointment of President John Dramani Mahama as First Vice Chair of the African Union Bureau reinforces Ghana’s leadership credentials on the continent. Working alongside AU Chairperson Évariste Ndayishimiye, who assumes office from Angola’s President João Lourenço for the 2026 term, President Mahama will help advance key continental priorities, including youth empowerment, industrialisation, economic integration, institutional reform and water security.
The selection of President Mahama comes as aspirations for economic independence, solidarity, and increased global influence are being made on a continental level.
Ghana’s increasing leadership position within the African Union is consistent with its domestic program, which emphasises jobs for youth, value addition, and industrialisation.
Ghana is expected to leverage the First Vice Chair role to drive sustainable development, boost regional collaboration in West Africa, and advance Africa-wide integration goals.