The Ministry of Information has announced significant progress in the preparations for the much-anticipated inauguration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama, scheduled for Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
The event is expected to draw a distinguished audience, including a formidable roster of international dignitaries, and will showcase Ghana’s commitment to democracy and international cooperation.
According to the Ministry, 21 Heads of State from across Africa and beyond have confirmed their participation. In addition, three Vice Presidents, four Ministers of State, and 24 envoys will be present at the historic event, emphasizing the global solidarity and respect Ghana enjoys within the international community.
“We appreciate the overwhelming support and solidarity from the international community and look forward to welcoming them,” the statement read.
Media Coverage and Accreditation
To ensure comprehensive media coverage, the statement noted that the Ministry has centralized production for the inauguration ceremony, promising a seamless and high-quality broadcast.
According to the statement, media outlets requiring clean feeds have been instructed to meet specific internet bandwidth requirements to access the live stream.
“All journalists, including the international press who have applied for accreditation are to pick them up from the office of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) today, 6th January 2025. This accreditation is mandatory for all journalists, photographers, and videographers who wish to cover the event.”
Lily Fati Soale, Acting Chief Director for the Minister of Information.
Traffic Management and Temporary Road Closures
The Ministry also outlined an extensive traffic management plan to facilitate the smooth movement of dignitaries and the general public during the inauguration.
Temporary road closures in key areas of Accra will be in effect from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on January 7, 2025. Affected areas include: roads leading to Parliament from the Electoral Commission (EC) to the middle of the Parliament House. The statement added that access will be limited to Parliamentarians and workers.
The statement further noted that roads around the CEPS Headquarters, Castle Road Junction, Osu Cemetery Traffic Light, and Starlet 91 Road would be closed.
Also, motorists travelling from La, Labone, and Osu towards the Central Business District will be rerouted through Salem Avenue while per the statement vehicles from John Evans Atta Mills High Street will be diverted at Liberia Road to the National Theatre.
Drivers heading from Lokko Street to Castle Road were urged to use Ajumaku Street and Oxford Street while traffic from the AU Circle will be redirected via Abdul Diouf and King Hassan Roads to Abdul Nassar Gamel Road near the Ghana Institute of Journalism. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes and adhere to the directions of security personnel.
Ensuring a Secure and Memorable Ceremony
The Ministry emphasized that temporary road closures and diversions are critical to ensuring the safety and security of all attendees, including high-profile dignitaries.
Security measures at Parliament House and Independence Square will be strictly enforced, underscoring the importance of smooth coordination during the event.
The inauguration of H.E. John Dramani Mahama marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s democratic journey.
The Ministry assured the public that all efforts are being made to ensure a successful ceremony that reflects the nation’s commitment to peace, progress, and international collaboration.
“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the cooperation of the public in ensuring a successful inauguration ceremony,” the statement concluded, signed by Lily Fati Soale, Acting Chief Director for the Minister of Information.
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