04/10/2025
Hon Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah writes;
𝗔 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗛 𝗢𝗙 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗛𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦
President Mahama’s Servant-Leadership: An Example Worthy of Emulation for African Leaders
I had just landed from an official assignment when I tuned in to follow the live discussions between President John Dramani Mahama and representatives of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) on the fight against illegal mining.
As I listened from the airport, what struck me most was not just the government’s comprehensive plans and ongoing actions to combat galamsey — impressive as those are — but rather, the posture of the President himself.
I have followed the galamsey issue closely over the years, and truthfully, in such a politically charged context, one might expect a President to become defensive, to highlight successes, or to “blow his trumpet.”
But what I witnessed was the exact opposite.
President displayed a rare blend of humility, candor, and courage. He spoke with disarming honesty — acknowledging both the gains made and the challenges that remain. He did not shy away from criticism; instead, he invited it. He urged the media and civil society to keep criticizing, to keep holding government accountable, to keep our feet to the fire.
This is the essence of Servant-Leadership — leadership rooted in truth, humility, and accountability. In a world where many leaders seek to be praised rather than questioned, this attitude is refreshing, revolutionary, and deeply inspiring.
This is not just politics. This is a reset of leadership style and values.
President Mahama’s approach represents a breath of freshness on the African continent — a model of leadership that listens, learns, and leads with empathy and sincerity.
Indeed, Ghana is on the right path, and under President Mahama’s stewardship, the future is bright. May other African leaders take a cue from this example — that true strength in leadership lies not in defending oneself, but in serving one’s people with honesty and grace.
