Who is the richest politician in Ghana? Here’s a complete list of the top 10 wealthiest Ghanaian lawmakers and their net worth in 2024.
Ghana is a democratic country located in West Africa, with a population of approximately 33 million people, per Worldometer. Since gaining independence in 1957, Ghana has held several democratic elections, with the most recent being held in 2020. The country has seen significant improvements in its democratic institutions and processes, with regular peaceful transitions of power and a relatively free and independent media.
In recent years, some Ghanaian politicians have amassed significant wealth, with many of them ranking among the richest people in the country. This has raised questions about the source of their wealth and whether it was acquired through legitimate means.
Some of Ghana’s notable political figures include former President Jerry John Rawlings, who led the country from 1981 to 2001, and current President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has been in office since 2017. Both leaders have made significant contributions to Ghana’s political landscape and have played pivotal roles in shaping the country’s democracy.
Members of Parliament (MPs) and politicians in Ghana earn salaries and allowances, but many of them also have other sources of income, such as owning businesses or investments. However, there have been concerns about the influence of money in Ghana’s politics, with some politicians accused of using their wealth to influence the outcome of elections and policy decisions.
In this context, the wealth of Ghanaian politicians has become a subject of public scrutiny, with some calling for greater transparency and accountability in how politicians make their money. As Ghana continues to consolidate its democratic gains, the issue of wealth and politics is likely to remain a topic of debate and discussion.
Who are the richest politicians in Ghana?
With the growth of Ghana’s economy in the past few years, there are some people whose fortune has significantly grown. The rich have always made it a habit to invest their money in profitable ventures, a habit that has seen them become more successful in life.
It is no easy task to find and rate the richest politicians in Ghana. This is primarily because most wealthy people hardly want to showcase or flaunt their wealth.
Who is the wealthiest politician in the country? This list includes Forbes’s richest man in Ghana, who happens to have the highest net worth. The people on this list have worked hard to get to where they are today. They have made significant impacts on society, and you should know about them.
Becoming a politician in Ghana is financially very attractive, and the salary paid to politicians, together with other fringe benefits like car, house, travel allowances, offices, and ex-gratia, are often too good to pass up.
12. Mahamudu Bawumia – $5 million
- Date of birth: October 7, 1963
- Age: 60 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Tamale, Ghana
- Spouse: Samira Bawumia
- Education: The University of Buckingham (1987), Tamale Senior High School, Simon Fraser University, Lincoln College
- Parents: Hajia Mariama Bawumia, Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia
- Party: New Patriotic Party
- Office: Vice-President of Ghana since 2017
Mahamudu Bawumia is a Ghanaian economist, author, and former central banker who serves as the 5th Vice President of Ghana in the 4th Ghanaian Republic. He assumed office on 7 January 2017 as Vice President of Ghana.
Before he was nominated as the vice-presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party alongside the then-presidential candidate, he was a great name in the banking world. He is a great politician who has impacted the country in great ways.
What is Mahamudu Bawumia’s net worth? The politician’s net worth is estimated at $5 million, per Yen.com. This makes him one of the richest Ghanaian politicians. He makes his fortune from politics and other endeavors.
11. Alhaji Baba Kamara – $11 million
Alhaji Baba Kamara. Alhaji Baba Kamara is the current Ghana National Security Advisor and High Commissioner/Ambassador to Nigeria. He has a concurrent affiliation with the Republics of Cameroon, Chad, and Sao Tome & Principe. Apart from being a great politician, he was the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of Kamara Limited. He is currently the CEO of African Trans Bridging Limited until 2009.
He was appointed by the President of the ECOWAS Commission as the deputy head of a 250-member ECOWAS Election Observation Mission to the Federal Republic of Nigeria from February 22-28, 2023. The Mission, which is to be led by the former President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Koroma, was expected to observe the presidential election held in Nigeria on February 25, 2023, per The Ghanaian Times.
He was appointed to lead the introduction and distribution of Dangote Industries’ $2.5 billion fertilizer to the Ghanaian market and other segments of the West African market, per MyNewsGh.
What is Alhaji Baba Kamara’s net worth? Politician and businessman, Baba Kamara has an estimated net worth of $11 million, per Yen.com.
10. Charles Kofi Wayo – $30 million
Kofi Wayo, popularly known as “the Showman” is a politician and international businessman who is quite controversial. He is a self-made millionaire whose major source of income is his merchandise in arms. He founded the United Renaissance Party to contest for the presidential post in the next polls.
What is Charles Kofi Wayo’s net worth? Mr. Kofi Wayo, the “Showman”, as he is called, is a controversial politician and international businessman with a current net worth of $30 million per BuzzGhana.
9. Jerry John Rawlings – $50 million
- Date of birth: June 22, 1947
- Birthplace: Accra, Ghana
- Death date:: November 12, 2020, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra
- Children: Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Kimathi Rawlings, Amina Rawlings, Yaa Asantewaa Rawlings
- Spouse: Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings (m. 1977–2020)
- Presidential term: January 7, 1993 – January 7, 2001
- Parents: James Ramsey John, Victoria Agbotui
- Buried: January 27, 2021, Burma Camp, Accra
Jerry John Rawlings was a Ghanaian military officer and politician who led the country for a brief period in 1979 and then from 1981 until 2001 when he stepped down. He led a military junta until 1992 and then served two terms as the democratically elected President of Ghana.
He sadly died on November 12, 2020, at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra.
What was Jerry John Rawlings’ net worth? The late Ghanaian leader had an estimated net worth of $50 million, per Africa Ranking. He also has various business deals that have contributed to his net worth.
8. Kwadwo Adjei Darko – $150 million
- Date of birth: May 10, 1948
- Age: 74 years
- Party: New Patriotic Party
- Education: University Of Cape Coast
Mr. Kwadwo is a prominent politician who has served in various top government positions as a minister. He has served as a Member of Parliament for the Sunyani West constituency in the Brong Ahafo Region of Ghana. He has also headed the Ministry of Mines and the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
What is Kwadwo Adjei Darko’s net worth? Kwadwo Adjei Darko is a Ghanaian politician with a current net worth of $150 million, per Answers Africa.
7. Dr. Yaw Osafo-Maafo – $220 million
Although Dr. Osafo-Maafo trained as an engineer in school, he made his mark in the financial sector when he helped two major banks get back on the right track. After that, he got into the political arena and was a Member of Parliament for a while.
The senior presidential advisor, Yaw Osafo-Maafo, marked a major milestone in his life when he celebrated 80 years old with his family in 2022.
What is Dr. Yaw Osafo-Maafo’s net worth? Dr. Yaw Osafo-Maafo has a current net worth of $220 million, per GhSplash. He has also served as a chairman and a board member for several corporations, contributing generously to his net worth.
6. Nana Akufo-Addo: $250 million
- Date of birth: March 29, 1944
- Age: 80 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Accra, Ghana
- Education: University of Ghana (1964–1967), City, University of London, The City Law School, Lancing College, New College
- Presidential term: January 7, 2017
- Full name: William Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
- Party: New Patriotic Party
- Spouse: Rebecca Akufo-Addo (m. 1997)
Nana Akufo-Addo is a prominent politician who is the President of Ghana. He won the 2020 presidential election against the former president and was sworn in for his second term in January 2021.
He is a career lawyer who got his credentials at the prestigious Inns of Court School of Law in the UK. He has worked for firms both in Ghana and abroad. Apart from his political aspirations, he is the founding partner of a firm and sits on the boards of several businesses.
What is Nana Akufo-Addo’s net worth? As a Ghanaian president, Nana Akufo-Addo makes a salary of $76,000, per Wikipedia. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has a current net worth of $250 million, per AvenueGh.
5. Haruna Iddrisu: $300 million
- Date of birth: September 8, 1970
- Age: 53 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Tamale, Ghana
- Spouse: Mary Safua
- Education: University of Ghana (1997), Navrongo Senior High School
- Office: Member of Parliament of Ghana since 2005
- Previous office: Minister for Communications of Ghana (2009–2013)
- Party: National Democratic Congress
- Nationality: Ghanaian
Haruna is the Member of Parliament for Tamale South and the Minister for Employment and Labour Relations in Ghana. He is currently the minority leader in Ghana’s parliament.
What is Haruna Iddrisu’s net worth? Haruna Iddrisu is a Ghanaian lawyer and politician who is among the richest and has a current net worth of $300 million, per Yen.
4. Kennedy Agyapong – $400 million
- Date of birth: June 16, 1960
- Age: 63 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Central Region, Ghana
- Children: 22 kids including Ken Takyi Agyapong, Amanda Agyapong
- Spouse: Stella Wilson Agyapong
- Siblings: Betty Agyapong
- Parents: Francis Ohene Kofi Agyapong
- Party: New Patriotic Party
- Office: Member of Parliament of Ghana since 2013
Kennedy Agyapong is a Ghanaian businessman and politician best known for his good work in contributing to the development of Ghana and of course for his controversial attitude.
He has over the years contributed massively to the politics in Ghana, especially to the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He is currently representing Assin Central as a member of parliament for the NPP.
He has several businesses across Ghana, which have gone a long way to contribute to his worth.
These businesses have also created employment for many. Ohene Agyapong owns these reputable and well-known businesses:
Ash FM, Assin Farms, Gold Coin Communication, Hollywood Shopping Centre, Mina D’oro Ventures, M/S Imperial World Business Limited, Net 2 TV, Oman FM, Real Estate Company, Super Care Company Limited (Dealer in Air Conditioners), Spice FM, The National Newspaper, Kennedy Digital Satellite.
What is Kennedy Agyapong’s net worth? Honourable Kennedy Agyapong who was on the 6th spot of the wealthiest Ghanaian politicians in 2023 is now occupying the fourth position. In a 2021 interview with Dentaa Amoateng, he mentioned for the first time that he was worth over $200 million, adding that he was shocked to learn he was worth more than Hollywood actor Denzel Washington.
He declared an increase in wealth in 2023 after disclosing in an interview that he is worth more than $400 million. The outspoken politician from Ghana, who ran as the NPP’s presidential candidate but lost to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, claimed that he is “richer than those contesting with him, and this makes him the best candidate for the 2024 presidential elections.”
This puts him among the wealthiest Ghanaian MPs and politicians in general. As a businessman, his major assets are his business establishments.
3. Kwabena Duffuor: $680 million
- Date of birth: 1946
- Age: 78 years old (as of 2024)
- Party: National Democratic Congress
- Education: Samuel Pencils, Syracuse University, University of Ghana
- Children: 5
Kwabena Duffuor was the Finance Minister of Ghana. He has also served as the governor of the Bank of Ghana. He was named one of the four best central bank governors in the world at an IMF/World Bank meeting in 1999.
What is Kwabena Duffuor’s net worth? Kwabena Duffuor has been rated among the wealthiest tycoons in the country, with an estimated net worth of $680 million. He is the CEO of House of Duffour Asset Holdings. The businessman also owns a lion’s share of UniBank shares. He has previously held influential positions in the government.
2. John Dramani Mahama: $900 million
- Date of birth: November 29, 1958
- Age: 65 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Damongo, Tamale, Ghana
- Children: Farida Mahama, Sharaf Mahama, Jesse Mahama, Shafik Mahama, and Shahid Mahama
- Education: Institute of Social Sciences (1988), University of Ghana (1986), University of Ghana (1981), Achimota School
- Presidential term: July 24, 2012 – January 7, 2017
- Spouse: Lordina Mahama (m. 1992)
John Dramani Mahama is a Ghanaian politician who was the president of Ghana from 2012 to 2017. Before he was president, he was a vice president from January 2009 to July 2012. Apart from his political aspirations, Mahama is a communications expert, historian, and writer. He has had a history in the political arena since 1996, when he became a Member of Parliament.
His wealth is attributed to the various powerful positions he has held in the country. For instance, he also served as the Minister for Communications and MP for Bole Bamboi.
What is John Dramani Mahama’s net worth? Per Glusea, Ghanaian politician and businessman John Dramani Mahama is the second richest politician in Ghana and has a current net worth of $900 million.
1. Dr. Kwame Addo Kufuor: $1.2 billion
- Date of birth: July 14, 1940
- Age: 83 years old (as of 2024)
- Birthplace: Kumasi, Ghana
- Siblings: John Kufuor
- Party: New Patriotic Party
- Education: University of Cambridge (1970)
- Nieces: Saah Kufuor, Nana Ama Gyamfi
- Nephews: Owusu Afriyie Kufuor, Agyekum Kufuor, and J. Addo Kufuor
Who is the richest Ghanaian politician? With a net worth of $1.2 billion, Dr. Kwame Addo Kufuor is the wealthiest politician in Ghana right now.
Kwame Addo-Kufuor is a Ghanaian politician and physician. Addo-Kufuor was a member of parliament for Manhyia, and from 2001 to 2007, he was the Minister for Defense under President John Kufuor, his brother. Between June 2008 and 2009, he was the Minister of Interior.
Summary of the richest Ghanaian politicians
This list of the richest politicians in Ghana shows that it is a blessed country. Having wealthy people in the country impacts the economy positively. The rich people in society do this by creating more employment and investment opportunities.
Below is the full list of the names and net worth of the top 10 richest politicians in Ghana.
- Dr. Kwame Addo Kufuor – $1.2 billion
- John Dramani Mahama – $900 million
- Kwabena Duffuor – $680 million
- Kennedy Agyapong – $400 million
- Haruna Iddrisu – $300 million
- Nana Akufo-Addo – $250 million
- Dr. Yaw Osafo-Maafo – $220 million
- Kwadwo Adjei Darko – $150 million
- Jerry John Rawlings – $50 million
- Charles Kofi Wayo – $30 million
- Alhaji Baba Kamara – $11 million
- Mahamudu Bawumia – $5 million
- Ken Ofori-Atta – $5 million
- Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom
- Bryan Acheampong – $20 million
