The Executive Secretary to President John Dramani Mahama, Dr. Callistus Mahama, has announced that Ghana plans to add new aircraft to its presidential fleet by November 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s state aviation capabilities.
Addressing concerns about recent presidential travel arrangements, Dr. Mahama explained that the government is taking steps to expand the fleet used for official trips. He noted that the move will enable Ghana to rely entirely on state-owned aircraft for presidential missions.
The announcement comes amid public debate over the use of an aircraft owned by the President’s brother for certain international trips, which had sparked questions about a potential conflict of interest.
Dr. Mahama said the current arrangement is temporary and largely due to limitations with the aircraft currently available to the state. Some existing aircraft are unsuitable for long-distance diplomatic missions, while others face technical or operational constraints.
“Plans are already underway to strengthen Ghana’s presidential air transport capability as part of the broader retooling of the Armed Forces. By November this year, the country is expected to have additional aircraft within the presidential fleet, including one dedicated to the President’s travel,” he stated.
He added that once the new aircraft are operational, the government will be able to rely fully on state-owned platforms for the safe and efficient movement of the Head of State, removing the need for temporary arrangements.
Dr. Mahama also highlighted the complexities involved in presidential travel, citing considerations such as security, diplomatic scheduling, communication systems, and the President’s need to remain fully functional while abroad. He acknowledged the importance of public perception, noting that citizens have a right to question arrangements that may appear unusual.
The Executive Secretary said the acquisition of additional aircraft is part of a broader plan to modernise and re-equip the Ghana Armed Forces and aligns with President Mahama’s “Reset Agenda,” which seeks to strengthen institutions and promote responsible governance.
He expressed confidence that once the new aircraft are delivered, Ghana will have a more reliable and self-sufficient system for presidential travel.
