Mahama to revive Ghana Airways before leaving office

Story by: Isabella Kabukuor Atrikpe

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed optimism that Ghana’s defunct national airline, Ghana Airways, will resume operations before the end of his tenure.

Speaking at the Russian University of Transport (RUT) in Moscow on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, after receiving an honorary doctorate, President Mahama disclosed that efforts were underway to restore the airline as part of the government’s broader transport development agenda.

“And even as I speak, we are working on revamping our cherished national airline, which is the defunct Ghana Airways. And as I said, it’s my hope that before I leave office, we will have Ghana Airways back in the air,” he stated.

The President emphasised the importance of efficient transportation systems in promoting economic growth, describing transport infrastructure as a major driver of national development.

“Transport systems are an important catalyst to development. And throughout history, the pace of progress of nations has been advanced by the great railways, the great highways, the shipping facilities, and aviation. In Ghana, we recognize this fact,” he said.

Highlighting ongoing infrastructure projects, President Mahama indicated that his administration was investing in roads, railways, ports and airports under the government’s Big Push programme.

He explained that major road networks were being reconstructed, existing port facilities expanded and three new regional airports developed to improve connectivity and facilitate economic activities.

The President further disclosed that work was progressing on the extension of Ghana’s railway network, alongside plans to introduce new freight trains to strengthen the transportation of goods across the country.

Beyond transportation, President Mahama revealed that Ghana was exploring nuclear energy as part of efforts to support industrialisation and increase electricity generation.

He explained that the country’s ambition to process its mineral resources locally would require substantial energy investments to meet growing industrial demands.

“My dream is to translate the macroeconomic success into jobs and opportunities for the young people. How we set the stage for the country to industrialise.

That’s my dream,” he told students during an interactive session.
Meanwhile, the Russian University of Transport honoured President Mahama for his leadership and contributions to infrastructure development and education.

The recognition followed an earlier honorary doctorate awarded to him by the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN), where he pursued postgraduate studies nearly four decades ago.

As part of efforts to strengthen educational cooperation between Ghana and Russia, RUDN also announced a Patrice Lumumba scholarship programme to benefit seven students annually.

President Mahama’s visit to Moscow forms part of his participation in the third Russia-Africa Summit, scheduled for October 28 and 29, where African leaders are expected to discuss trade, energy, infrastructure and economic cooperation.

He is also expected to hold bilateral discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and engage business leaders to explore investment opportunities for Ghana.