By The Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has interacted with market women and ‘kayayei’ (head porters). He also engaged with other traders at Makola Market.
The engagement provided an opportunity to listen to their concerns. It allowed us to understand their expectations ahead of the 2025 Budget presentation on Tuesday, 11th March.
Describing the interaction as a privilege, Dr Forson acknowledged the vital role these hardworking traders play in sustaining the economy.
“It was a privilege to interact with these hardworking Ghanaians. They break their backs daily to support our economy,” he posted on X on March 8. He highlighted their contributions to the country’s commercial sector.
Accompanied by his deputy, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, they discussed economic challenges affecting small-scale traders. These challenges included inflation, taxation, and access to credit.
Dr Forson assured the traders that their concerns would be considered in shaping policies for the upcoming budget. He noted that their input is crucial in determining the country’s economic direction.
“Their expectations ahead of Budget 2025 will help shape our shared future,” he affirmed.
Meanwhile, government has approved the 2025 fiscal policy document ahead of its official presentation to Parliament on March 11.
This decision, made during a special Cabinet meeting on Thursday, reaffirms the administration’s commitment to economic stabilization and sustainable growth.
Minister of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu spoke to the press after the meeting. He assured Ghanaians that the government remains committed to fulfilling its social promises. It also aims to fulfill its economic promises. He confirmed that the fiscal policy will reflect the administration’s 120-day pledges. These pledges include the removal of the betting tax. They also include the elimination of the COVID levy.
Additionally, the budget will outline the financial state inherited by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government. It will offer hope. It will also include strategic policies for national development.
Energy Minister John Jinapor has announced that the government will construct a second gas processing plant. This is in a bid to address Ghana’s long-standing energy challenges. This decision follows Cabinet’s directive, aimed at bridging the nation’s fuel supply gap and ensuring a stable power supply.
