I was privileged enough as a young MP to join the Ghanaian delegation that travelled to Washington DC for the IMF – World Bank spring meetings.
This posed a number of opportunities for me, first of all to learn from the many people who will be attending the meeting all over the world and also the workings of the Bretton Woode Institutions.
As a member of the Finance Committee of the 9th Parliament of the Republic of Ghana, I needed to do myself some good by operating an open mind to learn, observe, and create great relationships.
My take on the five day meeting is as follows
Global Economic Outlook
Growth Projections: The IMF forecasts global growth at 3.3% for 2025, with a gradual decline to just above 3% over the next five years, well below historical averages. This slowdown is attributed to factors such as ageing populations, geopolitical tensions, and tightening financial conditions. What this means is that countries across the world, including Ghana, may adjust their targets for the year. Remember Ghana is on an IMF balance of payment support and this may throw the country economic gains out of gear, but adapting to home grown solutions and expenditure cuts as we have seen demonstrated by the John Mahama administration. If this continues, Ghana may see some more growth
Debt Concerns:
The IMF is worried about global public debt. It is projected to reach 100% of global GDP by 2030, raising alarms about fiscal sustainability. Emerging markets, in particular, face challenges due to rising borrowing costs and limited access to international capital markets. Third-world countries like ours are at risk, and urgent steps need to be taken to win the confidants of the international market
Trade Tensions
Discussions at the meetings highlighted the lack of clarity regarding the U.S. tariff policies, especially under President Donald Trump. Despite numerous trade proposals, no agreements were finalized, leaving global financial leaders concerned about the economic outlook. This leaves a lot of worry for many who trade with the US.
During the meeting, a few things ran through my mind, especially the implications for my beloved country, Ghana.
Fiscal Consolidation:
Ghana has made progress in fiscal consolidation, with the primary fiscal balance improving significantly. The government aims to achieve a primary surplus of 1½% of GDP in 2025 through enhanced domestic revenue mobilization and expenditure rationalization. I urge the government not to renege on this target since it will go a long way to help macro economic stability.
Debt Restructuring:
The country is engaged in comprehensive debt restructuring efforts, including agreements with official creditors and Eurobond holders. These initiatives are expected to reduce Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio currently stands at 61.8 per cent. It is estimated that a completion of the debt exchange program will push Ghana’s GDP to ratio 55 percent by the end of 2025, a significant improvement from the previous year of 2024
Energy Sector Reforms:
Addressing challenges in the energy sector, Ghana has launched the Energy Sector Recovery Programme to achieve financial stability. Efforts include renegotiating contracts with Independent Power Producers to reduce costs and alleviate fiscal strain. The coming in of the phase two of the Atuabo Gas processing plant will reduce the import of gas and save the country fiscally.
Monetary Policy:
The Bank of Ghana has maintained a prudent monetary policy stance to sustain a reduction in inflation and strengthen financial sector stability. Measures include recapitalizing state-owned banks and rebuilding international reserves.
Path Forward for Emerging Markets Structural Reforms
Emerging markets must prioritize structural reforms to enhance fiscal resilience, improve governance, and foster private sector investment. These reforms are crucial for sustaining economic growth and development.
_International Support:_
There is a call for increased support from international financial institutions to address challenges such as weak domestic revenue mobilization and limited access to international capital markets. Tailored and enhanced technical support is essential for sustainable development.
_Debt Management:_
Effective debt management strategies, including timely debt restructuring and fiscal discipline, are vital to prevent debt distress and ensure long-term economic stability. The recent announcement by the Finance Minister of an amendment to the public procurement act to include commencement certificate before a project can be done is commendable and must be applauded. This will save the country of payment of projects that never saw the light of day.
The agric mechanisation programmes will also help reduce debt burden, and more investment will be made in the sector.
