The promise of positive economic news is on the horizon for Ghanaians, according to recent announcements by President Mahama. Speaking during his ‘Thank You Tour,’ Mahama hinted at promising developments expected from the upcoming mid-year budget review in August. His address suggested potential improvements in the Ghana budget, ongoing Ghana economic recovery, and continued Mahama infrastructure projects across the nation.

President Mahama’s statements have sparked interest and anticipation among Ghanaians, economists, and political analysts alike, all keenly awaiting the specifics of the budget review and its potential impact on the nation’s economy.

Economic Recovery and Policy Reforms

Mahama’s address focused heavily on the signs of economic improvement, pointing to a stronger Cedi and an easing of the cost of living. These indicators suggest that the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy may be bearing fruit. The stronger Cedi, in particular, has been welcomed as a sign of increased economic confidence.

He emphasized the government’s commitment to economic stability and the fiscal discipline that is supposedly being applied. He referenced the budget presented to Parliament in March, which aimed to trim expenditure and prioritize key programs.

“Our focus has been on stabilising the economy. We therefore presented to Parliament in March this year a budget aimed at severely trimming expenditure and channelling the saved revenue into priority programmes, as promised in our manifesto,” – President Mahama.

President Mahama specifically commended the Economic Management Team for their efforts in steering the economy. He lauded the Finance Minister and the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, emphasizing the coordination and collaboration displayed by their teams as crucial to the economic turnaround.

“I wish to commend the Minister of Finance and the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, along with their teams, for the coordination they are displaying in this economic turnaround,” – President Mahama.

Infrastructure Development Under the ‘Big Push Programme’

Infrastructure development also featured prominently in President Mahama’s address, with a focus on the ‘Big Push Programme’. He indicated the impending cabinet approval of major Mahama infrastructure projects, signaling a renewed commitment to upgrading Ghana’s infrastructure. Priority is supposedly being given to the road sector, with several key projects in the pipeline.

Among the key road projects mentioned was the dualisation of the Accra-Kumasi highway. Plans are also underway for the dualisation of the Accra-Takoradi and Accra-Aflao highways. Furthermore, the construction of a new Accra-Kumasi Expressway is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two major cities. Major bridge works are also planned to improve connectivity across the country.

The Upper West Region is expected to receive special attention, with the Watumu–Bolgatanga Trunk Road being prioritised under the Big Push Programme. President Mahama acknowledged the poor condition of the road network in the region and affirmed his commitment to addressing it.

“During the campaign, we travelled on the terrible road network that has become characteristic of the Upper West Region. In this region, under the Big Push, we are prioritising the Watumu–Bolgatanga Trunk Road,” – President Mahama.

Commitment to Inclusive Development

President Mahama reiterated the NDC’s vision for Ghana, emphasizing a commitment to transformative change in all regions. He highlighted the focus on historically neglected areas, such as the Upper West Region, that have long been underdeveloped despite their huge potential.

“We are determined, under the guidance of the NDC’s 2024 manifesto, to bring transformational change to every corner of Ghana and especially to regions like the Upper West Region that have long been underdeveloped despite their huge potential,” – President Mahama.

The NDC’s 2024 manifesto provides the guiding principles for this inclusive development, reinforcing the commitment to regions with untapped potential.

In summary, President Mahama’s address highlighted the promise of economic recovery, ambitious infrastructure development plans, and a commitment to inclusive development. The mid-year Ghana budget review is expected to provide further details on these initiatives, offering a clearer picture of the nation’s economic trajectory. With a focus on stability, infrastructure, and inclusive growth, the NDC government aims to steer Ghana towards a brighter future.