Ghana Business News

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Bank of Ghana Urges Industry-Wide Collaboration to Combat Rising Digital Fraud and Protect Financial Inclusion
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Bank of Ghana Urges Industry-Wide Collaboration to Combat Rising Digital Fraud and Protect Financial Inclusion

Elhanan Owureku Asare, the Head of Fintech and Innovation at the Bank of Ghana (BoG), has issued a stark warning regarding the limitations of technology in the face of escalating digital fraud. Despite significant investments in secure applications and cybersecurity infrastructure, Asare emphasized that technology alone cannot stop hackers if customers are manipulated into surrendering their sensitive credentials, such as PINs and passwords. This warning comes as the central bank’s 2024 fraud report reveals a worrying upward trend: fraud cases in Ghana’s financial sector rose from 15,865 in 2023 to 16,733 in 2024, with the total value at risk reaching approximately GH¢99 million. The BoG is now calling for a more robust, industry-wide approach to safeguard the integrity of the nation's digital payment ecosystem. The rise in fraud is largely driven by sophisticated social engineering techniques, where criminals impersonate legitimate entities to deceive users. These developments have sparked concerns among economic experts like Godfred Bokpin, who noted that while digital payments have successfully integrated informal-sector workers and unbanked citizens into the formal economy, the 'trust crisis' could reverse these gains. Bokpin warned that if the public loses confidence in digital platforms due to persistent fraud, users may retreat to cash transactions, thereby hindering Ghana’s progress toward a cash-lite economy and broader financial inclusion. The central bank stresses that the challenge lies in implementing rigorous authentication measures without compromising the user convenience that drives digital adoption. To combat these systemic vulnerabilities, the Bank of Ghana is advocating for a coordinated fraud control system that bridges the current gaps between banks, fintech companies, and mobile money platforms. Asare highlighted the inadequacies of isolated security systems in an increasingly interconnected financial landscape. He pointed to ongoing initiatives such as the Financial Industry Community Security Operations Centre (FICSOC), which aims to monitor cyber threats in real-time, as a foundation for better collaboration. By establishing real-time fraud alerts and ensuring regulatory parity across all financial institutions, the BoG hopes to create a unified front against digital deception and reinforce the security of electronic payment channels. These critical issues will take center stage at the upcoming Digital Economy Forum, an initiative supported by Hubtel, which will explore whether Ghana’s current regulatory frameworks are sufficient to keep pace with rapid digital growth. The forum follows the release of a documentary titled 'The Trust Crisis,' which highlights the human element of digital fraud. As Ghana continues its transition toward a more digitized economy, stakeholders agree that the path forward requires a combination of advanced technological defenses, intensive public education, and unprecedented levels of industry cooperation to ensure that the digital revolution remains a secure and inclusive engine for economic growth.

Bank of Ghana Injects $2.01 Billion into Forex Market as Cedi Gains Ground Amid Mixed Economic Indicators
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Bank of Ghana Injects $2.01 Billion into Forex Market as Cedi Gains Ground Amid Mixed Economic Indicators

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has taken aggressive measures to stabilize the national currency, injecting a total of $2.01 billion into the foreign exchange market during June 2026. This significant intervention, comprising $1.2 billion through the Forex Intermediation Programme and $811 million via the FX Intervention Programme, successfully steered the cedi to its first monthly gain of the year. The currency appreciated by 3.30% against the US dollar in June, providing much-needed relief after a period of sustained pressure. Despite this recovery, the cedi remains down 7.9% on a year-to-date basis from January to July 2026. As of July 6, market rates showed the cedi trading at approximately GHS 12.25 on the retail forex market, while the central bank's interbank rate remained more favorable at GHS 11.40. Market analysts suggest that slowing demand for dollars and stabilizing crude oil prices may further support the currency in the coming weeks. While the central bank manages the currency, the government is exercising fiscal discipline in the domestic debt market. In recent Treasury bill auctions, the government intentionally missed its fundraising target of GH¢3.37 billion, accepting only GH¢3.16 billion despite receiving bids totaling GH¢4.16 billion. This 6.2% under-subscription was a strategic choice to reject bids with higher interest rates, as the Treasury seeks to contain borrowing costs amidst rising inflation concerns. Investor interest remains particularly strong for the 364-day bills, but the government's refusal to succumb to higher yield demands signals a commitment to debt sustainability. Looking ahead, the government plans to auction GH¢5.67 billion in Treasury bills to address short-term financing needs while the BoG scales back its July forex auction target to $1 billion. The broader economy presents a complex picture of consumer health as of early 2026. According to the Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Report, domestic VAT collections surged by 35.7% in March to reach GH¢2.06 billion, indicating robust tax revenue and potentially higher consumer activity in certain sectors. However, this growth is contrasted by a 1.9% year-on-year decline in retail sales. This divergence suggests that while overall spending may be shifting or tax compliance is improving, traditional retail volume faces ongoing challenges. These mixed signals highlight the delicate balance the government must maintain between stabilizing the currency, managing high interest rates, and fostering consistent economic growth.

Louis Vuitton A brown Louis Vuitton handbag with the company's iconic graphics, including the four-petal flower monogram, printed across the leather
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GEA Proposes National Housing Scheme as Experts Warn of Digital Fraud and Intellectual Property Risks

The Ghana Employers Association (GEA) has proposed a bold new National Home Ownership Programme aimed at addressing the country’s staggering 1.8 million housing deficit. Speaking at the 2nd National Labour Conference in Ho, GEA President Nana Dr. Emmanuel Adu-Sarkodee outlined a plan to provide affordable homes priced at approximately GH¢250,000. The initiative, which features a 25-year mortgage plan, is designed to stimulate economic growth and job creation while providing essential security for workers. This move toward physical asset accumulation comes as economists also emphasize the importance of formalizing Ghana’s informal sector through robust financial systems. While infrastructure development remains a priority, the transition to a digital economy presents its own set of challenges. Economist Godfred Bokpin noted during recent discussions that digital finance tools, such as mobile money and fintech platforms, are crucial for integrating unbanked citizens into the formal economy. However, he warned that rising levels of fraud, as reported by the Bank of Ghana, could erode public trust and drive users back to cash-based transactions. Maintaining the integrity of these digital systems is seen as a prerequisite for the success of broader economic initiatives, including the upcoming Digital Economy Forum which seeks to address these systemic vulnerabilities. The protection of assets extends beyond the physical and financial to the intellectual realm. Listowell Yesu Bukarson, CEO of LYB Sports & Entertainment, recently urged showbiz and sports personalities to prioritize intellectual property (IP) rights to secure their long-term financial futures. Speaking in Columbus, Ohio, he highlighted that while professional careers may be short-lived, properly managed IP can generate revenue for 70 years post-mortem. This warning is underscored by a significant international legal battle in China, where the tea chain Molly Tea was ordered to pay $1.5 million (10.3 million yuan) in damages to Louis Vuitton for trademark infringement. The court found that Molly Tea’s logo too closely resembled the luxury brand’s iconic flower monogram, sparking a global debate on design inspiration and legal boundaries. Together, these developments highlight a critical junction for Ghana’s business landscape: the need for integrated protection of physical, digital, and intellectual assets. Whether through affordable housing schemes, secure fintech platforms, or the aggressive defense of creative trademarks, the focus remains on building a resilient economic foundation. As the GEA pushes for housing reforms and upcoming investment summits promote IP awareness, the synergy between legal protections and structural investments will likely define the trajectory of the nation’s economic growth and the financial security of its citizens.

Scammers target Mobile Money users – CSA warns of sharp rise in fraudulent investment schemes
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Ghana Intensifies Fraud Prevention Measures as Online Investment Scams Drain GH¢3.4 Million in Six Months

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent public alert following a sharp spike in fraudulent online investment schemes that cost Ghanaians GH¢3,429,447 during the first half of 2026. Data reveals that 352 cases were recorded during this six-month period, with scammers predominantly using social media platforms to lure victims. These fraudsters often pose as representatives of legitimate foreign entities, such as the e-commerce firm Darazz, or operate under aliases like Daily Trade and Edollar. Victims are typically enticed with promises of high returns on cryptocurrency mining or online business tasks, only to lose their entire investment once payments are made via mobile money platforms. In response to this growing threat, the financial sector has launched several major initiatives to protect consumers and sanitize the digital finance ecosystem. MobileMoney Fintech LTD (MMFL) has initiated a nationwide ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) update exercise for all MoMo agents and merchants, which is scheduled to run until October 31, 2026. This initiative requires participants to provide valid Ghana Cards and business registration documents to enhance security for over 17 million subscribers. MMFL has warned that non-compliance by the deadline will result in service restrictions, emphasizing the importance of verified identities in preventing mobile money-related fraud. Complementing these regulatory efforts, the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB) has intensified its public education through the #ShineYourEye anti-fraud campaign. A recent regional roadshow in the Tamale Metropolis engaged community members on how to identify and report financial fraud, with the next session planned for Kumasi on July 25, 2026. GAB representatives highlighted that public awareness is a critical pillar in the fight against sophisticated scams, urging citizens to remain vigilant against offers that seem too good to be true. Broader efforts to combat organized crime are also yielding results through strategic public-private partnerships. A collaboration between QNET and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has successfully led to the rescue of over 300 victims of cross-border human trafficking and the prosecution of criminal networks involved in online fraud across West Africa. As cyber threats become more complex, authorities and industry leaders are calling for sustained cross-sector collaboration and the use of innovative technology to secure vulnerable communities and maintain the integrity of Ghana’s financial landscape.

Ghana Government Rejects High-Yield Bids as Treasury Bill Auction Misses GH¢3.37 Billion Target
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Ghana Government Rejects High-Yield Bids as Treasury Bill Auction Misses GH¢3.37 Billion Target

The Government of Ghana fell short of its Treasury bill auction target last week, prioritizing the management of borrowing costs over meeting its full fundraising goal. Despite a surge in investor interest that saw total bids reach GH¢4.16 billion, the government accepted only GH¢3.16 billion, missing its initial target of GH¢3.37 billion by 6.2 percent. Data from the Bank of Ghana indicates that while liquidity in the market remains robust, the Treasury intentionally rejected several bids with higher interest rates to prevent an unsustainable rise in debt servicing costs. This strategic move highlights the delicate balance the government must maintain between securing necessary funds and controlling interest expenses in a volatile economic environment. Analysis of the auction results shows strong participation across all tenors, including the 91-day, 182-day, and 364-day bills. The 364-day instrument emerged as the most attractive to investors, signaling a preference for longer-dated short-term paper. However, yields across all maturities continued an upward trajectory, reflecting investor concerns regarding persistent inflation and the desire for higher real returns. By selectively accepting bids, the government signaled a cautious approach to domestic borrowing, even as it faces increasing pressure to fund the national budget. This trend suggests that while investors are eager to lend, they are also demanding higher compensation for the risks associated with the current economic climate. Looking ahead, the government is ramping up its domestic borrowing requirements to meet short-term financing needs. For the current week, the Treasury has set a significantly higher auction target of GH¢5.67 billion. This upcoming auction will serve as a crucial test of the government’s ability to balance its need for liquidity with its commitment to controlling interest expenses. Market observers will be watching closely to see if the Treasury continues its strategy of yield containment or if it will be forced to accept higher rates to meet its more ambitious fundraising goals, especially as inflation remains a primary concern for market participants.

Ghana Tourism Authority Moves to Standardize Hospitality Sector with New Regulations and Digital Tracking System
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Ghana Tourism Authority Moves to Standardize Hospitality Sector with New Regulations and Digital Tracking System

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has initiated a critical consultation process in Tema to finalize the proposed 'Tourism (Registration and Licensing of Multi-purpose Establishments and Providers of Event Management Services) Regulations, 2026.' This engagement brought together hoteliers, event planners, and hospitality stakeholders to discuss new operational frameworks designed to formalize and professionalize the sector. Central to these reforms is the introduction of the Ghana Tourism Information System (GTIS), a digital platform aimed at revolutionizing data management and regulatory compliance across the industry. The proposed regulations aim to establish clear standards for the registration, licensing, and operation of various tourism-related establishments. By creating a robust legal framework, the GTA seeks to ensure higher levels of public safety and service quality, addressing the evolving needs of both domestic and international travelers. Regional Manager Mr. Isaac Asiam highlighted that the GTIS will be instrumental in this transition, providing the authority with accurate, real-time data to aid in policy formulation and informed decision-making. This shift toward a data-driven approach is expected to bring Ghana’s tourism landscape in line with global best practices. During the engagement, GTA officials emphasized that collaboration with industry players is essential for the success of these reforms. Stakeholders expressed broad support for the initiatives, acknowledging that clearer guidelines would help eliminate ambiguity in licensing and enhance the professional reputation of event management services. The feedback gathered during these Tema consultations will be used to refine the draft regulations before they are formally presented to Parliament for approval. By fostering a culture of compliance and continuous improvement, the GTA aims to stimulate sustainable growth within the tourism sector, ensuring it remains a vital contributor to the national economy.

Microsoft to Lay Off 4,800 Employees in Strategic Shift Toward AI Infrastructure
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Microsoft to Lay Off 4,800 Employees in Strategic Shift Toward AI Infrastructure

Microsoft has announced the layoff of approximately 4,800 employees, representing roughly 2.1% of its global workforce, as the company pivots its focus toward artificial intelligence infrastructure. This strategic reduction comes on the heels of a challenging financial period where the tech giant’s stock price plummeted nearly 23% during the first half of 2026, marking its most significant decline since 2022. The decision highlights the company's urgent need to reallocate capital and talent to maintain its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.The layoffs are part of a broader internal restructuring, with a particular focus on the company's gaming division, which has been grappling with declining profit margins. To mitigate the impact on its workforce, Microsoft had previously offered voluntary buyouts to around 9,000 employees earlier in the year. These maneuvers are designed to balance the high operational costs associated with expanding the Azure cloud-computing division against the need for leaner operations in other sectors of the business. Despite the job cuts, Azure continues to show resilience, with analysts expecting strong sales figures in the upcoming quarterly reports.Microsoft’s move mirrors a wider trend across the technology sector, as major players like Amazon and Meta have also executed significant layoffs throughout 2026. This industry-wide shift suggests a transition from the pandemic-era expansion to a more disciplined fiscal approach centered on generative AI and cloud services. As the company prepares to report its financial results later this month, stakeholders are closely monitoring how these cost-cutting measures will interact with the massive capital expenditures required for AI development. For now, Microsoft remains focused on streamlining its operations to secure its long-term position as a leader in the global tech economy.

The new piggery facility built by AngloGold Ashanti mines
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Ghana’s Industrial Landscape Expands with New Mining Diversification, Agricultural Processing Hubs, and International Manufacturing Partnerships

Ghana is witnessing a strategic shift in its economic landscape as major mining entities, government officials, and financial institutions push for industrial diversification and improved governance. AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Mine recently inaugurated a GH¢1.49 million piggery production center in Sanso as part of its 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan. This modern facility, constructed by local contractor X-Mell Construction, aims to create sustainable livelihoods outside of mining, enhancing food security and regional job creation. Simultaneously, the Ghanaian government has announced plans to establish a large-scale palm processing factory in the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area. Chief of Staff Julius Debrah revealed the initiative during the 2026 Ohum Festival, emphasizing its role in boosting the palm oil industry and providing employment for local youth. In the realm of international cooperation and manufacturing, Hon. Joana Gyan Cudjoe, Member of Parliament for Amenfi Central, has secured a strategic partnership with UNIPROMET, a prominent Serbian manufacturing firm. This collaboration is designed to leverage UNIPROMET’s engineering expertise to strengthen Ghana’s industrial sector, improve national infrastructure, and position the country as a primary hub for West African investment. This move aligns with broader efforts to transition Ghana from a raw material exporter to a manufacturing powerhouse, fostering economic opportunities for future generations. However, the path to industrial growth faces significant hurdles in financing and labor relations. At the WAMPEX 2026 conference, Benjamin Nana Kwesi Mensah of Stanbic Bank highlighted that while the small-scale mining sector is vital for employment, it struggles to attract long-term investment due to poor deal structures and a lack of transparency. He urged operators to adopt rigorous Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards and legal compliance to build investor confidence. Meanwhile, labor tensions have surfaced at Prestea Sankofa Gold Limited, where workers have initiated a sit-down strike over unpaid June salaries and the Managing Director’s delay in signing a Memorandum of Understanding regarding end-of-service benefits. These developments illustrate a complex economic period for Ghana, marked by ambitious industrial projects and the need for structural reforms. While new processing facilities and international partnerships offer a roadmap for growth, the sustainability of these gains will depend on resolving labor disputes and improving the transparency of financial frameworks within the extractive industries. As the government seeks land for new factories and mines diversify into agriculture, the focus remains on ensuring that industrial expansion translates into stable, long-term prosperity for all stakeholders.

PwC Survey Reveals 73% CEO Optimism as Ghana's Business Sector Embraces Digital Transformation and Formalization
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PwC Survey Reveals 73% CEO Optimism as Ghana's Business Sector Embraces Digital Transformation and Formalization

Ghana's business landscape is witnessing a surge in optimism combined with a push for modernization and structural formalization. According to PwC’s 29th Global CEO Survey, 73% of CEOs in Ghana express high confidence in revenue growth over the coming year, a figure significantly higher than the global average. While falling inflation and a stronger currency have bolstered this sentiment, executives remain wary of technology disruption and potential tariff impacts. To support this growth, MTN Business has partnered with Graphic Communications Group Ltd to provide Unlimited Fibre Broadband packages that include complimentary access to Graphic Business intelligence, ensuring that companies have both the connectivity and the market analysis necessary to thrive in a digital economy. At the Legacy Business Summit 2026 in Accra, industry experts emphasized the need for Ghanaian enterprises to evolve their operational structures. Banking expert Solomon Osuoza urged entrepreneurs to transition from sole proprietorships to limited liability companies to protect personal assets and ensure long-term sustainability. This focus on modernization was mirrored in the marketing sector during a summit hosted by Expressions Influencer Agency. Industry leaders, supported by the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana (CIMG), discussed the critical shift from traditional media to digital platforms, highlighting how authentic influencer engagement is reshaping marketing performance and audience value. Personal entrepreneurial journeys shared by Ghanaian leaders further underscore the importance of market adaptation and proactive opportunity-seeking. Prof. Enoch Opoku Antwi, a governance expert, detailed his success in opening a Caribbean restaurant in Ohio by differentiating his offerings through fresh, made-to-order meals—a strategy that won over local customers despite intense competition. Similarly, Derrick Abaitey, host of the Konnected Minds Podcast, shared how his early experiences selling apparel in London taught him the value of creating opportunities rather than waiting for them. Both narratives emphasize that understanding local consumer behavior and cultural dynamics is essential for entrepreneurial success in any market. The drive toward formalization is also making significant strides in the industrial sector, highlighted by the official registration of the Danpa Adanfo Co-operative Block Producers’ Society Limited. By securing legal status from the Department of Cooperatives, the society aims to enhance the competitive nature of Ghana’s building materials sector. As businesses navigate the rapid changes in AI and industry dynamics, these collective efforts—ranging from cooperative legal status to high-level digital strategy—point toward a more structured and resilient Ghanaian private sector capable of turning current economic tailwinds into lasting advantages.

Ghana Railway Development Authority Secures $21M EU Grant and Reactivates Accra-Koforidua Line
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Ghana Railway Development Authority Secures $21M EU Grant and Reactivates Accra-Koforidua Line

The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has announced a significant boost to the nation's transportation sector, securing a $21 million grant from the European Union (EU) and successfully reactivating the Accra-Koforidua rail line. The grant is specifically earmarked for upgrading the signal systems on the Tema-Mpakadan railway, a move designed to facilitate the full commercialization of freight services. Speaking at a press conference in Accra, GRDA Chief Executive Dr. Frederick Appoh emphasized that these initiatives are central to making Ghana’s rail services bankable, reliable, and a viable alternative for both cargo and commuters. The restoration of the Accra-Koforidua line comes after a 2.5-year hiatus and was made possible through a GHS 5 million investment. Since passenger services resumed in October 2025, the line has seen significant patronage, currently transporting approximately 6,800 passengers on a weekly basis. While the authority acknowledges ongoing challenges regarding fare pricing structures, the reactivation marks a critical step in revitalizing regional connectivity. Dr. Appoh noted that the focus remains on ensuring the service is sustainable and useful to the public while maintaining the technical integrity of the tracks. In tandem with passenger service improvements, the GRDA is prioritizing the expansion of freight transport to alleviate heavy congestion at the Tema Port. The $21 million EU grant will provide the necessary technological upgrades to the Tema-Mpakadan signaling system, ensuring safer and more efficient movement of goods. To support this freight-heavy strategy, the authority has opted for Class 56 diesel locomotives. These units were selected following a rigorous technical assessment which determined they are best suited for Ghana's specific railway conditions and the heavy loads associated with port-related logistics. Beyond infrastructure and technical upgrades, the GRDA is also focusing on its broader socio-economic responsibilities. The authority has outlined plans to improve its operational infrastructure and has committed to supporting local families impacted by recent floods. As the GRDA moves forward with its modernization agenda, the integration of the Tema-Mpakadan freight services and the continued success of the Accra-Koforidua line are expected to serve as the backbone of a more robust and commercially viable national railway network.

ISSER Study Reveals Massive GH¢556 Return on Sanitation Investment as Ghana’s Waste Management Industry Gains Momentum
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ISSER Study Reveals Massive GH¢556 Return on Sanitation Investment as Ghana’s Waste Management Industry Gains Momentum

A groundbreaking policy brief by the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) has revealed that strategic investment in Ghana’s sanitation and waste management sector could yield an extraordinary return of GH¢556 for every GH¢1 invested. The report positions sanitation not merely as a public service or an environmental obligation, but as a high-return economic engine capable of driving significant growth. By aligning national spending with lower-middle-income country benchmarks, Ghana could transform its current waste challenges into a multibillion-cedi economic windfall, particularly as the nation grapples with the recurring impacts of floods and public health crises. The ISSER study highlights a stark disparity in current expenditure, noting that Ghana currently spends an average of GH¢38.78 per tonne on waste management. To unlock the projected benefits, the report advocates for increasing this investment to GH¢1,028 per tonne, a figure that matches the average for comparable developing economies. Such a shift would likely yield GH¢180 in returns at current levels, but tripling the investment could result in total economic gains of GH¢58.1 billion by 2025. By 2032, these benefits are projected to climb to GH¢67.2 billion, driven largely by massive savings in healthcare costs and enhanced labor productivity. Beyond the fiscal figures, the impact on public health and human capital is profound. ISSER forecasts that improved sanitation infrastructure would reduce sanitation-related morbidity by 97.4% and decrease associated deaths by 81%. This health transformation is a critical component of the economic model, as it ensures a healthier workforce and reduces the burden on the national healthcare system. The report emphasizes that treating sanitation as a vital economic investment rather than a recurring expense is essential for fostering long-term resilience and job creation within the environmental sector. Evidence of the industry’s capacity for innovation was further highlighted at the 8th edition of the HESS (Health, Environment, Safety, and Security) Awards, where Zoomlion Ghana Ltd secured two major honors: the Waste Management & Recycling Facility Excellence Award and the Waste Management Innovation Award. These accolades underscore the private sector's readiness to implement the high-level strategies proposed by ISSER. Zoomlion’s Operations Manager, Emil Amoah, noted that these awards reflect a dedication to turning waste into valuable resources, reinforcing the idea that innovative waste management is central to meeting Ghana’s national development goals. Ultimately, the convergence of academic research and corporate excellence points toward a clear path for Ghana’s economic policy. Strategic financing in sanitation is no longer just an environmental necessity but a core economic strategy to mitigate the damage caused by flooding, improve the quality of life for citizens, and stimulate sustainable industrial growth. As the government and private stakeholders consider future infrastructure projects, the ISSER report serves as a compelling business case for prioritizing the waste management value chain as a pillar of Ghana’s macroeconomic stability.

FABAG Petitions President Mahama to Suspend Ghana Easy Pass Programme Amid Rising Business Costs
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FABAG Petitions President Mahama to Suspend Ghana Easy Pass Programme Amid Rising Business Costs

The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has issued a direct appeal to President John Dramani Mahama to suspend the newly introduced Ghana Easy Pass Programme, citing significant concerns over rising operational costs and consumer prices. The association expressed strong opposition to the Ghana Standards Authority’s (GSA) mandatory pre-export verification regime for imported goods, labeling it an unnecessary financial burden that contradicts the government’s stated commitment to improving the ease of doing business. FABAG argues that the programme introduces another layer of bureaucracy at a time when the private sector is already struggling with high-interest rates and escalating utility costs. Furthermore, the association contends that the new verification system is redundant because existing regulatory agencies are already equipped to ensure product quality and safety. Rather than adding new costs to the import process, FABAG suggests that the government should focus on enhancing the efficiency of these current institutions to achieve better regulatory outcomes without penalizing businesses. The association warned that the increased financial strain on importers will ultimately be passed down to the average Ghanaian consumer, exacerbating the economic challenges faced by many households. In conclusion, FABAG remains disappointed that the government is reviving a policy previously rejected by the business community and has called for immediate intervention to withdraw the programme. The association is urging the presidency to halt the implementation and instead engage in fresh, meaningful consultations with stakeholders to find more effective solutions that support the growth of the private sector while maintaining national standards.