Ghana’s President, John Mahama, has been acknowledged as the fifth most powerful individual in the realm of development and changemaking, according to a list compiled by the esteemed publication, DEVEX, in recognition of his advocacy for the Accra Reset.
The distinguished Devex Power 50 list highlights those individuals who are effecting transformative changes in the global development sector amidst significant shifts.
Mahama’s prominent ranking positions him as a leader of a new generation, adeptly navigating the decline of traditional foreign assistance and the emergence of growth driven by the private sector.
Central to President Mahama’s recognition is his vision for the “Accra Reset,” an ambitious framework aimed at redefining the dynamics between African nations and the global North. As the United States and other major donors scale back their foreign aid contributions, Mahama has risen as a prominent advocate for a “post-aid” Africa.
The Accra Reset emphasizes the importance of mobilizing domestic resources, enhancing regional trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and harnessing technology to overcome conventional development challenges.
Devex observes that Mahama has transcended the mere rhetoric of “Africa Beyond Aid” to enact tangible, market-oriented policies that draw in development finance while preserving national sovereignty.
Mahama’s ranking at number 5 serves as a testament to his significant influence across several critical domains:
While President Mahama epitomizes the apex of political leadership on the list, the Devex Power 50 also showcases other vital contributors who are shaping the future:
Philanthropy & Finance: The list includes key figures such as Alexander Berger (Open Philanthropy) and Nidhi Sahni (Bridgespan Group), who oversee the allocation of billions in private capital.
Technological Innovators: Keller Rinaudo Cliffton, CEO of Zipline, is recognized for his contributions to the integration of AI and robotics in healthcare delivery throughout the continent.
Global Health Advocates: Individuals such as Muhammad Ali Pate are acknowledged for transforming health systems to enhance their resilience against potential future pandemics.
The “Behind-the-Scenes” Players: The list highlights that contemporary power resides with those who shape “policies, people, and financial resources,” including individuals like Avinash Persaud, who is redefining the framework of global climate finance.
By placing President Mahama among the top five, Devex recognizes that the trajectory of global advancement is increasingly being steered from capitals such as Accra. His leadership during the Accra Reset signifies a pivotal shift in how developing countries assert their influence and seek representation in global decision-making forums.
