President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the boards of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public institutions to immediately cease all state-funded international travel for training, conferences, retreats, and study tours due to increasing concerns regarding public expenditure.
This directive, which originated from the Jubilee House and was signed by the Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, is part of a wider set of government initiatives designed to enhance fiscal discipline and ensure the responsible management of national resources.
As per the directive dated March 5, 2026, the President has been made aware of what officials have termed a rising trend of international travel by the boards of public institutions.
“The President has been informed that certain Boards of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and other public institutions have been increasingly engaging in international travel for training programs, retreats, conferences, and study tours,” the statement indicated.
While recognizing the advantages of professional development and exposure to global best practices, the Presidency has pointed out that the escalating frequency and costs associated with such trips have become a matter of concern.
“Although the Government acknowledges the significance of ongoing learning, exposure to international best practices, and the enhancement of corporate governance within public institutions, the frequency and expenses related to such international travel—often involving numerous board members and lengthy itineraries—have raised substantial concerns regarding the responsible management of public resources.”
The statement highlighted that many of these trips have led to considerable public expenditure.
“In numerous cases, such travels have resulted in high costs for airfares, accommodation, per diems, and related logistics, placing unnecessary strain on the public finances at a time when the Government is enforcing strict measures to ensure fiscal discipline, effective public financial management, and the judicious use of national resources.
Consequently, the directive mandated an immediate cessation of the practice.
“In light of the above, His Excellency the President has instructed that the practice allowing Boards of State-Owned Enterprises and other public institutions to engage in international travel for training, retreats, conferences, or similar activities at the State’s expense must be terminated without delay.”
According to the new directive, boards of SOEs and public institutions are required to obtain presidential approval for any necessary international travel.
“If a Board deems an international engagement to be absolutely essential and it cannot be reasonably conducted locally or via virtual means, a formal request must be presented through the sector Minister to the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President for the explicit approval of His Excellency the President prior to any commitments or arrangements being made.”
The government has also urged ministries and agencies to focus on local training programs and in-country capacity-building initiatives as more cost-effective alternatives.
The Presidency stated that the directive is part of broader initiatives aimed at enhancing expenditure controls and reallocating limited national resources towards priority development programs that directly benefit the Ghanaian populace.
