President John Dramani Mahama has ordered an immediate halt to international travel by boards of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and other public institutions for training programmes, conferences, retreats and study tours funded by the state.
The directive, issued from Jubilee House and signed by Secretary to the President Callistus Mahama, is part of government efforts to tighten fiscal discipline and reduce pressure on public finances.
According to the directive dated March 5, 2026, the decision follows growing concern within government about the increasing frequency of overseas trips undertaken by boards of public institutions.
“It has come to the attention of the President that some Boards of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and other public institutions have increasingly undertaken international travel for training programmes, retreats, conferences, and study tours.”
While acknowledging the benefits of professional exposure and learning from global best practices, the government said the growing cost of such travels had become a concern.
“While Government recognises the importance of continuous learning, exposure to international best practices, and the strengthening of corporate governance within public institutions, the frequency and cost of such international travel—often involving multiple board members and extended itineraries—have raised serious concerns regarding the prudent management of public resources.”
Officials also noted that in several cases the trips had generated substantial expenses for the state.
“In several instances, such travels have resulted in significant expenditure on airfares, accommodation, per diems, and associated logistics, placing avoidable pressure on the public purse at a time when Government is implementing firm measures to ensure fiscal discipline, efficient public financial management, and the responsible utilisation of national resources.”
In response, the President has directed that the practice must stop immediately.
“In view of the foregoing, His Excellency the President has directed that the practice whereby Boards of State-Owned Enterprises and other public institutions undertake international travel for training, retreats, conferences, or similar activities at the expense of the State should cease with immediate effect.”
The directive further instructs sector ministers who oversee SOEs and other public institutions to ensure strict adherence to the new policy.
“Boards of SOEs and public institutions shall not undertake international travel for training, retreats, conferences, or study tours funded directly or indirectly from public resources.”
However, the government indicated that limited exceptions may be considered where international engagements are deemed absolutely necessary.
“Where a Board considers that an international engagement is absolutely necessary and cannot reasonably be undertaken locally or through virtual means, a formal request must be submitted through the sector Minister to the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President for the express approval of His Excellency the President before any commitments or arrangements are made.”
Any such request must include detailed justification outlining:
“the purpose and expected outcomes of the travel;
the strategic relevance of the engagement to the mandate of the institution;
the number of participants proposed;
the estimated total cost; and
Why the objectives cannot be achieved through local or virtual arrangements?”
The government also urged ministries, departments and agencies to focus more on local capacity-building initiatives.
“Ministries and their affiliated institutions are strongly encouraged to prioritise local training programmes, in-country retreats, and partnerships with reputable local institutions, universities, professional bodies, and training institutes as cost-effective alternatives for capacity development.”
Authorities further advised public institutions to consider alternative learning methods such as virtual platforms and local expert engagement when specialised training is required.
“Where specialised training is required, institutions should also explore virtual platforms, technical exchanges, and short-term expert engagements within Ghana rather than resorting to international travel involving full Board delegations.”
The directive concluded by emphasising that boards must remain focused on their core statutory responsibilities while ensuring prudent use of public funds.
