The 2025 national budget prioritizes critical infrastructure development, social welfare programs, and disaster relief efforts, reflecting the government’s commitment to economic transformation and improving the lives of its citizens. A significant portion of the budget, GH¢13.85 billion, has been allocated to the ‘Big Push Programme,’ an ambitious infrastructure initiative designed to modernize and expand transportation networks, bolster energy production and distribution, and enhance social development projects across the nation. This investment is expected to stimulate economic growth by creating jobs, improving connectivity, and fostering a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
Recognizing the importance of the gold mining sector to the national economy, the government has allocated the cedi equivalent of US$279 million as a revolving fund for the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD). This strategic investment aims to empower GOLDBOD to purchase and export a minimum of three tonnes of gold weekly from small-scale miners. By providing a reliable market and fair prices, the government hopes to formalize the small-scale mining sector, increase gold exports, generate more revenue, and contribute to the overall growth of the mining industry while promoting responsible mining practices.
Education and public health are also key priorities in the 2025 budget. A substantial allocation of GH¢499.8 million has been earmarked for the No-Academic-Fee policy under the broader No-Fees-Stress initiative. This policy aims to eliminate academic fees for all first-year students in public tertiary institutions. By removing this financial barrier, the government seeks to expand access to higher education, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, fostering a more skilled and educated workforce for the future. Furthermore, GH¢292.4 million has been allocated to fund the nationwide distribution of free sanitary pads to female students in primary and secondary schools. This initiative is designed to improve menstrual hygiene management, reduce school absenteeism among girls, and promote their overall well-being.
Disaster relief and support for affected communities are also addressed in the budget. The government has allocated GH¢242.5 million to provide assistance to victims of the Akosombo dam spillage, helping them rebuild their lives and livelihoods in the aftermath of this environmental disaster. Additionally, GH¢200 million has been set aside to support residents of Agavedzi and surrounding communities in the Ketu South constituency who have been impacted by tidal waves. These allocations demonstrate the government’s commitment to providing timely and necessary assistance to those affected by unforeseen natural events, mitigating the impact of these events on their lives.
The finance minister emphasized that these strategic allocations represent the government’s commitment to a multi-faceted approach to national development. The investments in infrastructure, education, health, and disaster relief are not just isolated expenditures but are interconnected components of a broader strategy to drive economic growth, improve social welfare, and enhance the overall quality of life for all Ghanaians. The government believes that by investing in these key areas, it can create a more robust and resilient economy, empower its citizens, and build a brighter future for the nation.
The budget reflects a balanced approach to addressing both immediate needs and long-term development goals. The significant investment in infrastructure, coupled with targeted social welfare programs, demonstrates a commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth. By focusing on these key areas, the government aims to create a more prosperous and equitable society where all citizens have the opportunity to thrive. The allocations for disaster relief further underscore the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens in times of need and building a more resilient nation capable of weathering unforeseen challenges. The government’s strategic investments in education and health are seen as crucial for building human capital and ensuring a healthy and productive population.
