President John Dramani Mahama has been ranked fifth on the Devex Power 50 list, which recognises the most influential individuals shaping global development and social change.

The annual list, compiled by the respected development media platform Devex, highlights leaders and innovators driving transformation in the global development sector amid what the publication describes as major structural shifts. President Mahama’s placement among the top five reflects his growing influence in redefining development thinking from the Global South.

According to Devex, President Mahama’s recognition is largely anchored in his leadership of the Accra Reset, a strategic framework aimed at reshaping Africa’s engagement with traditional development partners at a time when major donor countries are scaling back foreign aid.

The Accra Reset advocates a transition toward a post aid development model, with emphasis on domestic resource mobilisation, regional trade integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area, and the strategic use of technology to accelerate economic growth. Devex notes that Mahama has moved beyond policy rhetoric by promoting practical, market oriented approaches that attract development finance while safeguarding national sovereignty.

The publication describes President Mahama as part of a new generation of leaders navigating a global environment where private capital, innovation, and regional cooperation are becoming more central to development outcomes than conventional aid structures.

His ranking places him among individuals wielding influence not only through political authority but also through their ability to shape policy direction, mobilise resources, and redefine global development priorities.

Beyond political leadership, the Devex Power 50 list also features influential figures from philanthropy, finance, technology, and global health. These include leaders directing large scale private funding, innovators advancing healthcare delivery through technology, and policymakers reshaping climate and health financing frameworks.

Devex emphasises that power in today’s development landscape increasingly lies with those who can influence decision making, financial flows, and institutional reform, rather than traditional hierarchies alone.

By placing President Mahama in the top five, Devex signals a broader shift in global development leadership, recognising the growing role of African capitals such as Accra in setting the agenda for international cooperation and sustainable progress.