By Leo Nelson
Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi has moved swiftly to quash reports that military lands have been handed over to Ibrahim Mahama, the president’s brother, for private development. In a Facebook statement on 29 April, he called the claims “false and malicious” and urged the public to ignore them.
The project in question is a redevelopment of colonial-era infrastructure at Burma Camp. Genfi insists the land remains under military control.
The Ghana Armed Forces, he said, are leading a self-help housing programme to replace dilapidated barracks. Ibrahim Mahama, CEO of Dzata Group Holding, has donated GH¢120 million to build 10 residential blocks each with 16 units or service personnel.
The donation was unveiled at a fundraising luncheon at the Military Academy, chaired by statesman Sir Sam Jonah and attended by corporate executives. Genfi praised the contribution as patriotic, saying it directly improves the welfare of “gallant men and women in uniform”.
On the surface, this is a charitable gesture. But in Ghana’s political climate, a donation of GH¢120 million from the president’s brother to a military housing project at a time of fiscal squeeze – is bound to raise eyebrows. Genfi’s forceful denial suggests the rumours had gained traction. The Ministry has not provided independent documentation of the land title or the terms of the donation.
The redevelopment is described as “strictly for military use”. Yet the involvement of a private businessman with close family ties to the presidency invites scrutiny.
Why was a public-private partnership not tendered? What oversight exists over the use of the funds? And why was the announcement made via Facebook rather than an official parliamentary or ministerial briefing?
The Mahama administration has previously faced accusations of favouritism in land and procurement matters. Genfi’s categorical dismissal may reassure some, but it leaves unanswered questions about transparency. The government’s broader challenge is to distinguish genuine philanthropy from the perception of influence-peddling.
For now, the Deputy Minister has drawn a line. Whether the public or the military rank and file accepts it is another matter.