Since thrusting his life onto the national political scene over two and half decades ago, Julius Debrah has become a nationalistic figure who epitomizes loyalty, humility and patriotism.

His rise from a failed parliamentary candidate to a Chief of Staff who has earned pages in the Ghana’s political history, particularly the fourth republic is a remarkable feat inundated with not just political lessons but leadership and moral lessons. Even more exciting is that Julius Debrah’s rise was not predicated on political vindictiveness and performative leadership but rather genuine human relations skills and result-oriented strategy.

Owing to his outstanding loyalty and ability to get the job done through a charismatic and charming module of leadership, Julius Debrah’s appointment by John Dramani Mahama as Chief of Staff came as little surprise to no one and was even endorsed by actors on the other side of the political side.

As President Mahama embarks on a term which he describes as a legacy one, it is imperative to know more about his trusted lieutenant who has been charged with running the presidency.

Below are ten things about Julius Debrah as put together by the theafricareport.


Below are ten things about Julius Debrah as put together by the theafricareport.

Hails from Eastern Region

Born to James Debrah, a retired regional cocoa officer, and Kate Opokua, a trader, he hails from Suhum in Ghana’s Eastern Region. He is married with three children.

Mahama’s loyal confidant

Debrah is seen as the heir apparent to John Mahama, cementing his legacy as one of Ghana’s most loyal political allies. Over the years, Debrah has stood by Mahama through thick and thin, consistently supporting him in opposition and celebrating their eventual return to power.

Architect of National Sanitation Day campaign

As minister for local government and rural development in the previous Mahama administration, Debrah spearheaded the National Sanitation Day campaign, a monthly exercise to improve cleanliness and hygiene across Ghana.

Pioneering the street-naming exercise

Debrah’s tenure as local government minister also saw the implementation of Ghana’s street-naming exercise, aimed at improving urban planning and emergency services. His innovative approach earned him praise for addressing a long-standing issue in Ghana’s development.

Your tour guide

With a BA and MA in archaeology specialising in museums and heritage studies from the University of Ghana, Debrah’s career began in tourism.

As executive director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, he revitalised the sector, promoting Ghana as a destination and building bridges with international partners.When he leaves active politics, Debrah has said he wants to serve as a tour guide across West Africa.

A JICA alumnus

Debrah’s passion for tourism and heritage extends beyond Ghana.

In 2011, he became a JICA alumnus, studying sustainable tourism development in African countries at the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa, Japan, under TICAD IV sponsorship. In 2018, he furthered his expertise with studies and archaeological excavations at the Norwegian University of Science & Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim, Norway.

In 2012, Debrah contested the parliamentary seat for Suhum in the Eastern Region but lost.The setback didn’t deter him; he transitioned into regional and national roles.

A businessman

Debrah has a track record of supporting initiatives that create jobs and empower young people. Before joining politics, he built businesses in tourism, insurance, real estate and broadcasting, demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit.

Loved by the grassroots

Known for as a ‘people person’ Debrah has built a reputation for networking on behalf of his principal. His ability to connect with Ghanaians at the grassroots level, regardless of political affiliation, has earned him plaudits as a unifier.