Mahama’s Economic Advisory Group to Serve Without Pay – Kwakye Ofosu

Introduction

In a move signaling a unique approach to public service, Ghana’s government has announced that members of the newly formed Presidential Advisory Group on the Economy (PAGE) will serve in a voluntary capacity. This decision, highlighted by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, underscores a commitment to national service over personal gain. The article explores the composition of this high-level team, the rationale behind their unpaid status, and the strategic economic mandate they have been tasked with.

Key Points

Background

The formation of the Presidential Advisory Group on the Economy (PAGE) comes at a critical juncture for Ghana’s economic landscape. Governments often rely on economic councils to navigate complex financial crises, inflation, and debt management. Historically, such advisory bodies in Ghana and globally have comprised paid consultants or civil servants. However, the current administration under President John Dramani Mahama has opted for a distinct model.

The Context of Economic Recovery

Ghana has faced significant macroeconomic challenges, including currency volatility and high public debt. In response, the government is seeking to tap into the deep reservoir of expertise available within the private sector and academia. By inviting seasoned professionals to the table, the administration aims to bridge the gap between policy theory and practical market realities.

Government Communication

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State for Government Communications, has been the primary voice clarifying the status of this group. Speaking on the Joy Super Morning Show on January 16, 2026, he emphasized that the group is not composed of permanent government employees, distinguishing it from traditional bureaucratic structures.

Analysis

The decision for the advisory group to serve without pay is a significant departure from standard operational procedures. This section analyzes the implications, the composition of the team, and the potential impact on policy formulation.

Composition of the Advisory Group

PAGE is populated by a “who’s who” of Ghanaian economic and industrial leadership. The diversity of the group suggests a multi-faceted approach to economic policy:

• Kwame Pianim: A renowned economist and private sector leader known for his insights on development.
• Dr. Kwabena Duffuor: Former Governor of the Bank of Ghana and Finance Minister, bringing extensive regulatory and fiscal experience.
• Sir Samuel Esson Jonah: A leading industrialist with a legacy in mining and business leadership.
• Togbe Afede XIV: Economist and King of the Asogli State, offering a blend of traditional leadership and economic insight.
• Academia and Financial Markets: The inclusion of professors from the University of Ghana (Prof. Priscilla Twumasi Baffour, Prof. Patience Aseweh Abor) and Ms. Abena Amoah (CEO of the Ghana Stock Exchange) ensures that theoretical research is grounded in market realities.

The Rationale for Unpaid Service

According to Kwakye Ofosu, the motivation is purely patriotic. Many members are already engaged in lucrative private ventures or hold academic positions. Their participation is not a career move but a civic duty. This model is reminiscent of “citizen service” models seen in some administrations globally, where experts volunteer time to solve national crises.

However, from a pedagogical standpoint, this raises questions about sustainability. While short-term voluntary service is admirable, long-term engagement requires resources. The government’s assurance that the group will manage its own modalities suggests a high degree of autonomy, which is essential for maintaining objectivity.

Mandate and Scope

The Presidency has outlined a broad mandate for PAGE. Unlike narrow task forces, this group is expected to look at the “big picture” of Ghana’s economy.

• Macro-Economic Digital Marketing & Stability: While the original text mentions “digital marketing” in a macro context, this likely refers to the digitalization of the economy and marketing Ghana’s economic potential, alongside traditional macroeconomic stability.
• Fiscal Consolidation and Debt Sustainability: This is the core challenge. The group must advise on how to reduce deficits without stifling growth.
• Structural Transformation: Moving Ghana from a consumption-based economy to a production and export-led one.
• Revenue Mobilization: Advising on tax policies and non-tax revenue sources to fund national development.

Practical Advice

For stakeholders, policymakers, and citizens interested in this model of economic governance, the following practical insights are derived from the PAGE initiative:

1. Leveraging Voluntary Expertise

Organizations and governments can learn from this approach. When budget constraints are tight, recruiting high-level experts on a voluntary basis can be effective, provided there is a clear value proposition (i.e., legacy building, patriotism, network access).

2. Ensuring Independence

For an advisory group to be effective, it must remain independent. Kwakye Ofosu noted that the group would determine its own meeting frequency. To maintain credibility, the government should resist the urge to micromanage the group’s schedule or findings.

3. Focus on Implementation

Advisory groups often produce excellent reports that sit on shelves. To avoid this, the mandate should include a clear implementation roadmap. The inclusion of practical implementers like Ms. Abena Amoah (Stock Exchange) and Sir Sam Jonah suggests an awareness of this need.

4. Transparency in Operations

Since the group is not on the government payroll, they are not subject to the same bureaucratic reporting standards. However, to maintain public trust, periodic public updates on their recommendations and the government’s response to them should be encouraged.

FAQ

Conclusion

The formation of the Presidential Advisory Group on the Economy (PAGE) represents a strategic attempt to inject high-level, independent expertise into Ghana’s economic planning. By serving without pay, the members—led by figures like Kwame Pianim and Dr. Kwabena Duffuor—demonstrate a commitment to national service that transcends financial incentives. While the success of such a group ultimately depends on the government’s willingness to act on their advice, the initiative sets a precedent for collaborative, expert-driven governance. As Ghana navigates its economic future, the voluntary contribution of these seasoned professionals could prove to be a vital asset in steering the nation toward stability and growth.

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily. (2026, January 16). Mahama’s Economic Advisory Group to serve with out pay – Kwakye Ofosu.
• Joy Super Morning Show. (2026, January 16). Interview with Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
• The Presidency. (2026). Mandate of the Presidential Advisory Group on the Economy (PAGE).