President John Dramani Mahama has assented to five major bills, marking a significant step in the government’s efforts to strengthen Ghana’s national security framework, boost economic activity, improve educational standards, and safeguard the financial sector.
The newly enacted laws are the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2025; the Growth and Sustainability Levy (Amendment) Act, 2026; the University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences Act, 2025; the Ghana Deposit Protection (Amendment) Act, 2025; and the Education Regulatory Bodies (Amendment) Act, 2026.
Security Sector Reforms
The Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2025 introduces sweeping changes to Ghana’s national security architecture. The law abolishes the position of a substantive Minister for National Security and instead empowers the President to designate a minister to oversee the National Security Coordinator.
In a notable structural adjustment, the Act also renames the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) as the Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI), a move expected to align the agency more closely with modern intelligence operations and enhance coordination within the security apparatus.
Boost for Mining Sector
Under the Growth and Sustainability Levy (Amendment) Act, 2026, the government has reduced the levy imposed on gold mining companies from 3 percent to 1 percent. The reduction is expected to ease operational costs for mining firms and attract further investment into Ghana’s extractive industry, a key contributor to national revenue.
New Public University Established
The University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences Act, 2025 paves the way for the establishment of a new public university in Bunsu in the Eastern Region. The institution will focus on training professionals in engineering and agricultural sciences, areas considered critical for Ghana’s industrialisation and food security agenda.
The bill was introduced by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, as part of broader efforts to expand access to specialised tertiary education and promote research and innovation.
Strengthening Financial Protection
The Ghana Deposit Protection (Amendment) Act, 2025 enhances the capacity of the Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation to protect depositors in the event of the collapse of licensed financial institutions. The amendment is expected to deepen public confidence in the banking system and provide an additional layer of security for customers.
Tertiary Education Reforms
Meanwhile, the Education Regulatory Bodies (Amendment) Act, 2026 introduces stricter compliance requirements for tertiary institutions operating under mentorship arrangements. The law mandates such institutions to obtain full accreditation, or a charter, within six years.
The measure is aimed at improving quality assurance, strengthening oversight, and ensuring that institutions meet nationally approved academic standards.
A Broad Reform Agenda
Collectively, the five laws underscore the government’s commitment to institutional reforms across key sectors. From restructuring national security operations to enhancing financial safeguards and expanding access to quality education, the legislation reflects a coordinated effort to promote sustainable development and economic resilience in Ghana.
Observers say the successful implementation of these laws will be critical in determining their long-term impact on governance, investment, and public trust.
