President John Dramani Mahama has assented to five significant pieces of legislation, marking a decisive step in advancing governance reforms, education expansion, and financial sector protection in Ghana.
The signing, which took place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, followed the passage of the bills by Parliament and signals the government’s intent to implement wide ranging policy changes.
The bills include the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, the University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences Act, the Ghana Deposit Protection Amendment Act, the Growth and Sustainability Levy Amendment Act, and the Education Regulatory Bodies Amendment Act.
Together, these bills assented to by the President, touch on critical sectors of national development, from security and education to finance and taxation.
Security Reforms and Institutional Realignment
One of the most notable pieces of legislation is the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2026, which introduces key changes to Ghana’s national security architecture.
President Mahama explained that the law abolishes the Office of the Minister of National Security, a move intended to streamline oversight of security agencies.
Under the new arrangement, the President will have the flexibility to appoint any minister to supervise the country’s security apparatus. This, according to the President, is designed to enhance coordination and improve the effectiveness of intelligence operations.
The Act also restores the name of the National Intelligence Bureau to its original designation, the Bureau of National Intelligence. President Mahama noted that the change addresses longstanding confusion between the intelligence agency and the National Investment Bank, which shares a similar acronym.
Expanding Access to Higher Education
In the education sector, the University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences Act, 2026, establishes a new public university aimed at expanding access to specialized training in science and agriculture.
The institution will be headquartered in Bonsu in the Eastern Region, with additional campuses planned for Ohawu in the Oti Region and Acherensua in the Ahafo Region.
The establishment of the university reflects the government’s broader commitment to strengthening technical and agricultural education as part of its development agenda. By decentralizing access to higher education, the initiative is expected to benefit students in underserved regions and contribute to regional development.
President Mahama emphasized that the new university will play a critical role in building the human capital needed to support Ghana’s industrial and agricultural transformation.
Adjusting Tax Policy for the Mining Sector
The Growth and Sustainability Levy Amendment Act, 2026, introduces a revision to the levy imposed on mining companies. The President explained that the rate, which had previously been increased from one percent to three percent, will now be reduced back to one percent.
“As you’re aware, the act was amended to increase it from 1% to 3%, and so this act reduces it again. That is the levy on mining companies. It reduces it again to 1%, because of the introduction of the sliding scale of royalties”.
President John Dramani Mahama
This adjustment is linked to the introduction of a sliding scale of royalties in the mining sector. According to the President, the change is intended to strike a balance between maximizing government revenue and maintaining a competitive environment for investment.
The decision reflects ongoing efforts to refine fiscal policy in response to evolving economic conditions, particularly in sectors that play a significant role in national revenue generation.
Strengthening Financial Protection Systems
The Ghana Deposit Protection Amendment Act, 2025, expands the scope of financial protection in the country by extending coverage beyond traditional bank deposits. Under the revised law, mobile money wallets and other digital financial platforms will now be included in the deposit protection framework.
This development comes at a time when digital financial services are becoming increasingly central to Ghana’s economy. By broadening the safety net, the government aims to enhance public confidence in digital transactions and promote financial inclusion.
President Mahama noted that the amendment builds on the original intent of the law, which was to safeguard deposits held in commercial banks and other financial institutions. The expansion ensures that users of emerging financial technologies are equally protected.
Reforms in Education Regulation
The Education Regulatory Bodies Amendment Act, 2026, introduces changes aimed at providing greater flexibility for private tertiary institutions. The amendment allows these institutions the option to obtain charters, enabling them to operate with increased autonomy.
This reform is expected to support the growth of private higher education in Ghana, encouraging innovation and improving the quality of academic programmes. By creating a more flexible regulatory environment, the government aims to attract investment and expand educational opportunities.
President Mahama indicated that the amendment aligns with broader efforts to modernize the education sector and respond to the evolving needs of students and institutions.
The signing ceremony was attended by several senior government officials, reflecting the importance of the legislative milestone. Among those present were Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson, Attorney General Dominic Ayine, and Chief of Staff Julius Debrah.
Other attendees included the Clerk of Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, and Secretary to the President, Dr Callistus Mahama. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort between the executive and legislative branches in advancing the country’s policy agenda.
Advancing Governance and Development Goals
The passage and signing of the five bills represent a coordinated effort to address key challenges facing the country while laying the groundwork for future growth. From security sector reforms to education expansion and financial protection, the new laws reflect a comprehensive approach to governance.
As these measures take effect, attention will turn to their implementation and impact. The government’s ability to translate legislative changes into tangible outcomes will be critical in achieving the intended benefits.
For now, the signing marks a significant moment in Ghana’s legislative calendar, signaling a renewed focus on reform, innovation, and inclusive development.
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