As John Dramani Mahama was sworn in for his second term as Ghana’s president on January 7, 2025, his outfit became the centre of attention, with many Ghanaians taking to social media and traditional media to dissect its cultural symbolism.
The president’s attire, carefully chosen for the occasion, has sparked conversations about its deeper meaning, and has been hailed for its ability to represent Mahama’s leadership values as he returns to power.
The traditional Ghanaian symbols incorporated into Mahama’s outfit spoke volumes about his leadership philosophy. The Gye Nyame symbol, which signifies the omnipotence of God, reflected Mahama’s belief in divine guidance in his leadership. The Sankofa symbol, meaning “learn from the past,” highlighted Mahama’s focus on using Ghana’s history as a guide to navigate its future. The Dwennimmen symbol, representing strength and humility, reinforced his goal of leading with both authority and compassion. Finally, Nyame Dua, or the “tree of God,” served as a reminder of the divine presence and protection over Ghana during his presidency.
For many, these symbols resonated deeply, offering a glimpse into Mahama’s vision for Ghana. By drawing on these traditional elements, Mahama not only paid homage to Ghana’s rich cultural heritage but also expressed the core principles he hopes to bring to the presidency.
At 66, Mahama is embarking on a new chapter of leadership after a period of absence following his loss in the 2016 elections. Now returning to power as the 6th president under the Fourth Republic, Mahama faces long-standing challenges, including corruption, high unemployment, inflation, and growing public discontent. Yet, his inaugural attire suggested a sense of confidence and strength grounded in humility, signaling his readiness to tackle these issues with a steady hand.
The thoughtful and symbolic nature of Mahama’s outfit served as a reflection of his leadership style—one that seeks to balance tradition, faith, and the modern challenges facing Ghana. As he embarks on his second term, it is clear that Mahama intends to lead Ghana with both resilience and an understanding of the importance of the nation’s roots.