President Mahama halts state-funded foreign travel for SOE boards over public spending concerns

President John Dramani Mahama has directed boards of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public institutions to immediately halt state-funded international travel for training, conferences, retreats, and study tours amid growing concerns over public spending.

The directive, issued from the Jubilee House and signed by Secretary to the President Callistus Mahama, forms part of broader government measures aimed at strengthening fiscal discipline and ensuring the prudent management of national resources.

According to the directive dated March 5, 2026, the President’s attention had been drawn to what officials described as a growing trend of international travel by boards of public institutions.

“It has come to the attention of the President that some Boards of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and other public institutions have increasingly undertaken international travel for training programmes, retreats, conferences, and study tours,” the statement said.

While acknowledging the benefits of professional development and exposure to global best practices, the Presidency indicated that the rising frequency and cost of such trips had become a concern.

“While Government recognises the importance of continuous learning, exposure to international best practices, and the strengthening of corporate governance within public institutions, the frequency and cost of such international travel—often involving multiple board members and extended itineraries—have raised serious concerns regarding the prudent management of public resources.”

The statement noted that several of the trips had resulted in significant public spending.

“In several instances, such travels have resulted in significant expenditure on airfares, accommodation, per diems, and associated logistics, placing avoidable pressure on the public purse at a time when Government is implementing firm measures to ensure fiscal discipline, efficient public financial management, and the responsible utilisation of national resources.”

As a result, the directive ordered an immediate end to the practice.

“In view of the foregoing, His Excellency the President has directed that the practice whereby Boards of State-Owned Enterprises and other public institutions undertake international travel for training, retreats, conferences, or similar activities at the expense of the State should cease with immediate effect.”

Under the new directive, SOE boards and public institutions must seek presidential approval for any essential international travel.

“Where a Board considers that an international engagement is absolutely necessary and cannot reasonably be undertaken locally or through virtual means, a formal request must be submitted through the sector Minister to the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President for the express approval of His Excellency the President before any commitments or arrangements are made.”

The government also encouraged ministries and agencies to prioritise local training programmes and in-country capacity-building initiatives as cost-effective alternatives.

The Presidency said the directive forms part of broader efforts to strengthen expenditure controls and redirect limited national resources toward priority development programmes that directly benefit the Ghanaian people.

Source:Fiilafmonline/3News