President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Moscow to attend the third Russia–Africa Summit.
President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Moscow to attend the third Russia–Africa Summit.
He is heading Ghana’s delegation to the forum, which is set to concentrate on peace diplomacy, security cooperation, and a renewed drive for fair economic partnerships.
The summit, hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin from October 28–29, 2026, will convene more than 30 African heads of state and government.
President Mahama’s participation follows months of confirmation from Ghanaian and Russian officials.
During a visit to London last week, the President mentioned that his trip would convey a specific message to President Putin.
Ghana’s Ambassador to Russia, Dr. Koma Steem Jehu-Appiah, along with embassy staff, greeted the President at the airport. Russian government officials were also in attendance.
Ghana’s Ambassador to Russia, Dr. Koma Steem Jehu-Appiah (right)
Peace Mission
At the Financial Times Africa Summit on October 21, President Mahama stated his intention to use his Moscow visit to advocate for a ceasefire in the ongoing four-year-old Russia–Ukraine war.
“I’m going to Russia for the Russia–Africa Summit and try to convince President Putin to have a ceasefire if I can,” he remarked.
The President elaborated on this appeal by referencing Ghana’s long-standing non-aligned foreign policy, describing the nation as “friends to all and enemies to none.”
He noted that Accra maintains cordial relations with the United States, the European Union, China, and Russia, allowing Ghana to engage Moscow on peace matters without appearing to favor any side.
Bilateral Talks
President Mahama is also slated to hold a high-level bilateral meeting with President Putin on the sidelines of the summit, a possibility previously confirmed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The Foreign Minister indicated that the President views the summit as “very important” and expressed hope that the meeting will “further deepen our relations.”
During his visit, President Mahama and other heads of state will participate in an Economic and Humanitarian Forum and the summit’s plenary sessions. He will also visit a kente exhibition organized by the Russia–Ghana Parliamentary Forum.
Honorary Doctorates
Two universities, the Russian University of Transport and the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, are set to award President Mahama honorary doctorate degrees at separate ceremonies during his Moscow visit. The President will also meet with representatives from several Russian businesses and state institutions.
Beyond the Ukraine conflict, President Mahama has expressed willingness for broader security engagement with Russia concerning the Sahel region. He informed the London forum that “anybody who is committed to the fight against terrorism is welcome.”
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Announces Government Consideration of Fee Increase from GHC 7 to GHC 15
Ghana’s Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, has revealed that the government is contemplating an increase in school fees from GH¢7 to GH¢15, according to TV3 Ghana.
This proposal has sparked reactions from parents, lawmakers, and education advocates, many of whom are concerned about its potential effect on household budgets.
The government is reportedly considering the adjustment to assist schools in meeting their operational costs and enhancing educational services.
Speaking at a recent briefing, Iddrisu explained that escalating operational expenses and insufficient funding have placed significant financial strain on educational institutions.
He noted that additional funds could enable schools to improve their facilities, supply essential learning materials, and foster a more conducive learning environment for students.
The minister emphasized that education is a crucial catalyst for national development, making it imperative for schools to possess adequate resources for maintaining infrastructure and catering to students’ academic requirements.
Ghana’s education sector continues to grapple with challenges, including shortages of textbooks and other teaching aids, as well as difficulties in maintaining school facilities.
Proponents of the proposed increase believe that the additional revenue could help alleviate some of these issues. Conversely, critics worry that higher fees might impose further burdens on low-income families already struggling to cover their children’s educational expenses.
Teachers and other stakeholders have shared diverse perspectives on the proposal.
While some are of the opinion that improved funding could lead to better teaching resources, reduced class sizes, and strengthened teacher development programs, others argue that raising fees without sufficient support for disadvantaged families could diminish educational accessibility for vulnerable children.
Iddrisu has encouraged parents, teachers, and education experts to engage in discussions regarding the proposal. He indicated that stakeholder concerns must be taken into account to ensure that any final decision prioritizes student welfare and educational access.
