By Ashiadey Dotse
Ghana has begun the sixth review of its economic programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson describing the partnership as a “success” that has helped stabilise the country’s economy.
The review, which forms part of Ghana’s programme under the Extended Credit Facility, is being led by an IMF mission team headed by Dr Ruben Atoyan.
Speaking at the opening of the mission, Dr Forson said Ghana’s journey from the 2022 economic crisis to the current stage has been “long and demanding”, but has produced significant results.
He noted that the collaboration with the IMF has restored confidence in the economy and renewed hope among Ghanaians.
“Together, we have stabilised the economy, restored credibility, and given renewed hope to the Ghanaian people,” the Finance Minister said.
He expressed appreciation to the IMF team on behalf of the government and people of Ghana, stating that the progress made so far is the result of discipline and difficult policy decisions taken in the national interest.
Despite the gains, Dr Forson cautioned against complacency, warning that key challenges remain.
He identified youth unemployment as the most pressing issue, stressing the need to create opportunities for young people through private sector growth.
“If we do not create the conditions for the private sector to absorb our young people, the pressure on the state to provide jobs will become unsustainable,” he said.
The Finance Minister indicated that the government’s next steps will focus on ensuring that economic stability translates into increased investment, job creation, and broader opportunities for citizens.
He also revealed that critical decisions will be taken before the end of the IMF mission to shape the next phase of Ghana’s economic reform agenda, aimed at strengthening policy credibility, maintaining reform discipline, and boosting investor confidence.
Dr Forson added that the IMF team has acknowledged Ghana’s progress, describing the current stage as a significant milestone and commending the government’s efforts under the programme.
He assured that the government remains committed to sustaining the gains made and translating them into long-term economic growth and prosperity.
