In a bold move to reduce public spending, Ghana’s President John Mahama has abolished seven government ministries, bringing the total number down from 30 to 23. This decision, announced in a gazette on January 9, is part of Mahama’s efforts to implement an International Monetary Fund (IMF) austerity program and streamline government operations for greater efficiency
cutting agenda is in stark contrast to Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, who increased the number of ministries from 44 to 48 in
. Mahama’s move has been praised by many, with some seeing it as a demonstration of his commitment to efficient governance.
However, not everyone is convinced that cutting ministries will lead to significant cost savings. Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, argues that the real cost drivers are the larger ministries, such as health and education, and that abolishing smaller ministries may not have a major impact on government efficiency
Regardless, Mahama’s decision is seen as a step in the right direction towards reducing government spending and promoting efficient governance.
