President John Dramani Mahama has been ranked among the world’s most powerful figures influencing global development, securing the fifth position on a prestigious list compiled by international development publication, DEVEX.
The ranking places President Mahama in the top tier of 50 individuals shaping the future of global development and change-making, recognising his role in advancing the “Accra Reset” — a bold vision aimed at redefining Africa’s development path.
According to DEVEX, modern influence in development no longer rests solely with traditional political heavyweights. Instead, it increasingly lies with reformers, innovators, and policymakers who are rethinking how development is financed and delivered in a rapidly changing global environment.
In explaining President Mahama’s high ranking, the publication described him as a strong advocate for a new development framework for Africa, particularly in areas such as debt restructuring, fairer trade systems, and climate financing. DEVEX noted that President Mahama has consistently pushed the idea that African countries must take control of their development destiny rather than adjust to shrinking foreign aid.
The publication also highlighted a major meeting hosted by President Mahama in Accra in August 2025, where African leaders, policymakers, and global health experts launched a new approach to African health sovereignty built on local ownership and equitable global partnerships.
That initiative later gained wider international attention at the United Nations General Assembly in September, where it was expanded into a broader development agenda with implications beyond the African continent.
DEVEX concluded that President Mahama has become the leading champion of the “Accra Reset,” with former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo playing an advisory role in the process.
