Accra: Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has outlined the government's next economic priorities as Ghana seeks to build on the progress made in stabilising the economy. According to him, the next phase will focus on expanding commercial agriculture, adding value to locally produced goods, and creating more jobs for Ghanaians. He made the remarks after a meeting with the Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Makhtar Diop, at the Ministry of Finance.
According to Ghana Web, the Finance Minister revealed that Diop commended Ghana for the progress made in the economy, particularly the reduction in inflation. In a statement shared on his X page, Dr. Ato Forson mentioned, "A while ago, I welcomed Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), to the ministry. He commended Ghana's economic progress, especially the reduction in inflation."
Dr. Forson further noted that the government now aims to use the improved economic conditions to support sectors capable of generating more economic activity and employment. "I made it clear that our next steps include developing commercial agriculture, adding value to what we produce, and creating more jobs," he stated.
The meeting with the IFC chief comes as the government pushes its new economic programme, which is expected to target sectors capable of creating jobs on a large scale. Commercial agriculture and value addition are expected to form part of efforts to move Ghana beyond the production and export of raw materials. Increasing local value addition could also create opportunities for businesses involved in processing, manufacturing, packaging, and distribution.
The engagement with the IFC could provide opportunities for private-sector investment and financing as the government works to expand productive sectors of the economy.