Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has assured the Ghanaian community in Potomac, Maryland, that the government is making steady progress in stabilising the economy. She urged Ghanaians living abroad to continue contributing to the country's development efforts.
Speaking during a meeting hosted by Victor Smith, the Vice President highlighted significant improvements in key economic indicators. She noted that economic growth has exceeded expectations, inflation has eased, and the Ghana cedi has stabilised. These developments signal a positive shift from the difficult economic conditions the government inherited.
This assurance comes as Ghana navigates a period of economic adjustment and recovery, following global and domestic challenges. The contributions of the Ghanaian diaspora, particularly through remittances and investments, are crucial for supporting the nation's balance of payments and fostering local development. Their role in projecting a positive image of Ghana internationally also remains invaluable.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang stated, "Ghanaians abroad continue to play an important role in our economy. Government remains mindful of their interests, appreciates their sacrifices, and takes pride in the positive image they project of our country." She added that the government has taken decisive steps to restore stability through prudent fiscal management and reforms.
Looking ahead, the government remains focused on completing its debt restructuring programme and strengthening mechanisms like the Sinking Fund. This strategy aims to build greater resilience into the economy and prepare for future shocks. Decision-makers and markets will closely watch the progress of these reforms and their impact on long-term economic stability.
The Vice President also detailed various government interventions designed to improve the lives of citizens directly. These include significant investments in roads and other critical infrastructure projects across the country. Increased funding for Senior High Schools aims to enhance access to quality education for more Ghanaian youth.
Furthermore, the government has expanded access to the National Health Insurance Scheme, ensuring broader healthcare coverage for the population. Higher allocations to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies through the District Assemblies Common Fund are intended to address specific local community needs with clear guidelines for usage.
In healthcare, Professor Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known as Mahama Cares, which complements the Free Primary Healthcare initiative. These programmes aim to treat non-communicable diseases and strengthen preventive healthcare services nationwide. The government is also addressing youth unemployment through the Youth Employment Agency and other job creation initiatives.
Reforms in the energy, industry, and petroleum sectors are underway to improve efficiency, strengthen local capacity, and support reliable power generation. These sector-specific interventions are critical for fostering a conducive environment for business and industrial growth. The Vice President concluded by encouraging the diaspora to remain active partners, stating, "Together, brick by brick and Cedi by Cedi, we are building the Ghana we want."