Comparing the Achievements of Former Vice President John Mahama and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia
The vice-presidential roles of John Dramani Mahama (2009–2012) and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (2017–present) represent distinct leadership approaches tailored to Ghana’s evolving challenges. I’ll provide a balanced comparison and analysis of John Mahama and Bawumia’s achievements during their respective terms as Vice President of Ghana, highlighting their key contributions and challenges.
John Mahama as Vice President (2009–2012)
Achievements
Infrastructure Development
Mahama played a key role in facilitating infrastructural projects under the administration of President John Atta Mills. His contributions included road projects such as the Eastern Corridor Road and the Accra-Tema Motorway expansion. These efforts aimed at improving connectivity and boosting trade
Energy Sector Contributions
He supported initiatives to address Ghana’s energy deficit, including the expansion of power generation capacity through new plants and improved energy distribution networks. This laid the groundwork for subsequent energy projects during his presidency
Regional Diplomacy
Leveraging his diplomatic skills, Mahama represented Ghana in key ECOWAS negotiations, particularly in promoting peace and stability in the West African region
Criticism
Lack of Standalone Initiatives
While Mahama was an effective team player, critics argue that he did not champion specific, transformative initiatives solely under his leadership. His contributions were often part of broader governmental programs
MODERN GHANA
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Economic Struggles
Ghana faced high fiscal deficits, inflation, and currency depreciation during this period. Though these were systemic issues, his economic strategy as vice president did not yield visible improvement
Mahamudu Bawumia as Vice President (2017–Present)
Achievements
Digital Transformation
Bawumia is credited with driving Ghana’s digitalization agenda. Key initiatives include:
Mobile Money Interoperability: Enhanced financial inclusion by integrating mobile money platforms with the banking system.
Ghana Card and E-Government Services: Facilitated the digitization of identification, tax filing, and government service access.
Digital Ports System: Streamlined port operations, reducing corruption and increasing efficiency
Healthcare Innovations
Introduction of drone delivery services for medical supplies, improving healthcare access in remote areas
Economic Inclusion
His policies expanded access to financial services for rural and marginalized communities through initiatives such as the Universal QR Code for payments
Criticism
Economic Challenges
Despite his innovations, Ghana has faced rising inflation, debt burdens, and currency depreciation under his watch. Critics argue these economic issues overshadow the digital achievements
Implementation Gaps
Some digital projects, such as the Ghana Card rollout, have faced delays and challenges in reaching rural populations.
| Aspect | John Mahama (2009-2012) | Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (2017-2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Positive Contributions | – Played a crucial role in late President Mills’ administration during a critical democratic transition | – Spearheaded digitalization efforts in Ghana |
| – Managed national infrastructure projects | Led significant economic digitization initiatives: 1. Digital Address System 2. Digital Payments Platform 3. Ghana Card national ID integration 4. Mobile Money Interoperability | |
| – Represented Ghana in numerous international diplomatic missions | – Played a key role in economic policy formulation | |
| – Supported energy and transportation infrastructure improvements | – Pushed for financial sector reforms and government digital infrastructure | |
| – Advocated for economic transparency | ||
| Challenges/Negative Aspects | – Limited executive power during vice presidency | – Criticized for economic challenges during tenure |
| – Criticized for insufficient proactivity in addressing national challenges | – Some policies perceived as not fully effective | |
| – Allegations of early signs of corruption within government circles | – Accused of overpromising and underdelivering on economic transformation | |
| – Persistent issues like inflation and currency depreciation |
Who Scores Higher?
Overall Rating
- John Mahama: 6.5/10
Mahama’s legacy as vice president centers on infrastructure and diplomacy, laying foundations for development but lacking groundbreaking personal initiatives. - Mahamudu Bawumia: 8/10
Bawumia’s tenure is marked by transformative digital projects that have modernized governance and financial inclusion, despite ongoing economic challenges.
In My Opinion, while Mahama excelled in foundational infrastructure and diplomacy, Bawumia’s focus on innovation and digitalization has brought more immediate, visible impact. On balance, Bawumia’s achievements as vice president slightly outshine Mahama’s due to the transformative nature of his initiatives.
Dear reader, what do you think? let us know in the comment section below.
