Accra, Ghana – May 17, 2026—The Association of Political Consultants Africa (APC-Africa) has honoured His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, with the APC-Africa Democracy Award 2025.
The Africa Democracy Award is a distinguished continental honour established to recognize African leaders who exemplify resilience in leadership, steadfast commitment to democratic governance, dedication to constitutional principles, and public service.
President John Dramani Mahama’s resilience and commitment to democratic values reflect the enduring promise of accountable leadership in Africa.
APCA’s Governing Council unanimously resolved to honour President Mahama in recognition of his resilience in public life and democratic engagement, steadfast commitment to constitutional governance, advocacy for peaceful political processes and his exemplary service to the people of Ghana and the African continent.
With this award, President Mahama joins an elite group of past recipients celebrated for their democratic contributions, including H.E. William Ruto, President of Kenya; H.E. Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, Former President of Nigeria; and H.E. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, Nigeria.
The award was formally presented at the 8th Africa Political Summit and Democracy Awards, hosted at the University of Professional Studies, Accra on May 14, 2026. Receiving the award on behalf of the President, Hon. Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, who represented the Chief of Staff said, “the President is an exceptional democrat, who has been recognised internationally for his consistent and abiding belief in constitutional governance.”
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour and Keynote Speaker on behalf of the Chief of Staff, Hon. Afriyie-Ankrah charged APCA to lead a campaign to sensitise African citizens on the expensive nature of political campaigns, a situation which breeds a vicious cycle of poverty, since such resources could be diversified into job creation, health, education and infrastructure development.
He also proposed a continental and national conversation on the possibility of a one-term presidency of between 6 to 8 years in order to reduce the cost of elections every four (4) years. He also emphasised the growing participation of young people in politics, noting that inclusive political participation is crucial to building stable and peaceful societies.
This year’s Africa Political Summit, themed: “Reinventing political campaigns: strategy, technology, resourcing, and grassroots mobilization”, brought together political leaders, policymakers, election administrators, governance experts, political strategists, civil society organizations, academics, and development partners from across Africa to discuss the future of democracy, political communication, electoral integrity, technology, and inclusive governance on the continent.
In his opening remarks, Secretary-General of APC-Africa, Temitope Ajayi said, “this summit provides a high-level, non-partisan platform for examining the transformation of political campaigning in the digital age, strengthening democratic institutions, and promote professional standards in election management across the continent.”
About APC-Africa:
The Association of Political Consultants Africa (APC-Africa) is the continent’s leading network for political consulting professionals.
Committed to ethical practices and the advancement of democracy, APC-Africa fosters the exchange of innovative strategies, technologies, and best practices among campaign managers, media consultants, and public affairs experts across Africa.
Media Contacts:
President
Kipngeno Kirui Duncan
+254725570132
president@apc-africa.org
media@apc-africa.org
Secretary-General
Tope Ajayi
+2348023817694
Organising Secretary
Tunji Awonusi
+447833019032
Israel Venunye
Ghana Representative
+233249135329
