As we look ahead to the future, envisioning Ghana in 2025, we find ourselves in a dance with both challenge and opportunity. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson recently stepped into the spotlight to unveil the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, offering a roadmap that promises to address the pressing issue of food security amidst soaring inflation.
Dr. Forson stood before Parliament, his voice firm yet hopeful, laying out the government’s dedication to bolstering the agricultural sector. He announced,
“To address food inflation and strengthen local production, we are investing in agricultural expansion, irrigation, and mechanization.”
These words, echoing through the chamber, serve as a beacon of hope for the many who rely on agriculture for their livelihood.
Key Areas of Investment
So, where exactly are these resources being channeled? It’s a fair question, given the significance of agriculture in our nation’s economy. The allocated funds are being distributed to address critical areas, including:
- Expanding irrigation schemes to promote year-round farming, ensuring food availability even during off-seasons.
- Providing fertilizers and farm inputs at subsidized rates to make farming a more viable and sustainable venture.
- Supporting mechanization and storage facilities to tackle the persistent issue of post-harvest losses.
Furthermore, Dr. Forson emphasized the importance of collaboration in this grand endeavor. The government is actively engaging with farmers, agribusinesses, and other key stakeholders to enhance the cultivation of essential staples like rice, maize, and various vegetables.
As discussions continue, Dr. Forson eloquently reiterated the government’s commitment towards nurturing the agro-processing industries. He stated, “The government is also committed to supporting agro-processing industries to add value to raw materials before they enter the market.”
It’s not just about producing the raw goods; it’s about adding value, fostering innovation, and ultimately, positioning Ghana as a strong player in the global market. By facilitating access to credit for smallholder farmers—who often struggle under the weight of high-interest rates—the government hopes to unlock their potential and drive economic growth.
Major Budget Allocations for 2025
Beyond the fertile fields, the 2025 budget casts a wide net, aiming to address a plethora of economic challenges, with a keen focus on enhancing education, healthcare, and providing support to the vulnerable sectors of our communities. Let’s delve into the heart of these key allocations:
- GH₵13.85 billion — The Big Push Programme, for ambitious infrastructure projects that promise to transform our nation’s landscape.
- GH₵499.8 million — The ‘No-Academic-Fee’ policy for first-year students in public tertiary institutions—an investment in our future leaders.
- GH₵292.4 million — Free sanitary pads for female students, marking a powerful step towards gender equality in education.
- GH₵242.5 million — Assistance for those affected by the Akosombo dam spillage disaster, showing solidarity and support for our communities in need.
- GH₵200 million — Aid for victims of tidal wave disasters in Ketu South, reminding us that we are all connected in times of crisis.
- GH₵3.5 billion — Free Secondary Education Programme to provide equitable access to quality education for all.
- GH₵564.6 million — Free curriculum-based textbooks, ensuring every child has the tools to succeed in school.
- GH₵1.788 billion — Sustaining the School Feeding Programme, because no child should learn on an empty stomach.
- GH₵145.5 million — Capitation Grant support for basic education, laying the foundation for tomorrow’s minds.
- GH₵203 million — Teacher trainee allowances, investing in those who inspire the next generation.
- GH₵480 million — Nursing trainee allowances, recognizing the vital role of healthcare workers.
- GH₵9.93 billion — National Health Insurance Scheme, enhancing healthcare access for all Ghanaians.
- GH₵2.81 billion — Ghana Road Fund, paving the way for better connectivity and economic growth.
- GH₵7.51 billion — District Assembly Common Fund, promoting local development and empowering communities.
- GH₵1.5 billion — Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda, set to revolutionize agricultural productivity.
- GH₵51.3 million — Seed money for the Women’s Development Bank, championing female entrepreneurs.
- GH₵300 million — National Apprenticeship Programme, equipping our youth with essential vocational skills.
- GH₵100 million — ‘Adwumawura’ Programme, for job creation initiatives.
- GH₵100 million — National Coders Programme, fostering digital skills and IT training in our tech-savvy youth.
These budgetary allocations reflect more than just numbers on a page. They are statements of intent, declarations of purpose, and promises to our people. They underscore a government striving to overcome economic adversities, elevate education and healthcare standards, and uplift the communities most in need. As Ghana takes these bold steps towards agricultural expansion, infrastructure enhancement, and job creation, it secures its future on the path to sustained economic transformation and resilience. Perhaps, in moments like these, we’re reminded of the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Together, we stride forward.
Edited By Ali Musa, Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
