Profile: Julius Debrah – The Chief of Staff at the Centre of the Mahama Administration

Edited by: Solomon Kwabena Nana-Ansah -Paaps – 

Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah has become one of the most influential figures in the administration of President John Dramani Mahama, playing a central role in government coordination and political strategy.

Widely regarded as one of the President’s closest political allies, Dr. Debrah has built a reputation over the years for his grassroots engagement, organisational skills, and extensive experience in public administration. His long-standing association with President Mahama has made him a key figure in the implementation of the government’s agenda.

Having served in several senior positions within government, Dr. Debrah brings decades of experience in governance and public service. His previous appointments include serving as Regional Minister for both the Eastern and Greater Accra Regions, as well as Minister for Local Government and Rural Development during the previous Mahama administration.

During his tenure as Local Government Minister, he oversaw the introduction of the National Sanitation Day initiative, a nationwide campaign aimed at promoting environmental cleanliness and improving public sanitation through monthly community clean-up exercises.

He also supervised the nationwide street naming and property addressing programme, an initiative designed to improve urban planning, emergency response services, postal delivery, and municipal administration across the country.

Beyond public service, Dr. Debrah has experience in the private sector, with interests in tourism, insurance, real estate, and broadcasting. Supporters say this background has shaped his appreciation of private sector development and youth employment.

His international exposure has also contributed to his professional development. In 2011, he participated in a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) programme on sustainable tourism development for African countries at the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa, Japan. In 2018, he further broadened his academic experience through archaeological fieldwork at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim, Norway.

As Chief of Staff, Dr. Debrah is responsible for coordinating the work of government, facilitating policy implementation, and supporting the President in the management of state affairs. His role places him at the centre of executive decision-making and the day-to-day operations of the Presidency.

Political observers often point to his ability to engage with party supporters, traditional leaders, and stakeholders across different sectors as one of his defining strengths. His continued prominence within the Mahama administration reflects the confidence reposed in him by the President and his significance within the governing structure.

With an extensive background in governance, administration, and political organisation, Dr. Julius Debrah remains a key figure in the current administration’s efforts to advance its policy priorities and national development agenda.