President John Dramani Mahama announced on September 4, 2025, that Ghana will no longer spend over $15 million annually on renting properties abroad for its diplomatic missions. The President described the practice as wasteful and unsustainable, emphasizing the need for fiscal prudence and long-term sustainability.
New Policy: STRIDE Initiative
To address this issue, the Cabinet has approved the Strategic Transition from Rental to Developing (STRIDE) policy, which aims to transition Ghana’s foreign missions to state-owned properties. According to President Mahama, a transaction advisor has been appointed, standard developments are being prepared, and funding mechanisms are being negotiated.
Reducing Wasteful Expenditure
The President emphasized that this shift will ensure Ghana’s missions abroad are housed in proper state-owned homes, reducing unnecessary expenditure while enhancing the country’s international image. “This decisive shift will ensure that our missions abroad are housed in properties that are owned by the Republic, reducing wasteful expenditure while safeguarding Ghana’s dignity on the international stage,” he stated.
Fiscal Discipline
President Mahama’s decision aligns with his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline, as highlighted in his speech at the 9th CEO Summit. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable macroeconomic environment that supports business expansion and investment.
Implementation and Expected Outcomes
The STRIDE initiative is expected to reduce Ghana’s annual expenditure on diplomatic rents, promoting fiscal responsibility and sustainability. By transitioning to state-owned properties, Ghana’s diplomatic missions will not only reduce costs but also enhance the country’s image abroad.