2023 Mid-Year Budget Review: Energy, cocoa sectors earmarked for transformation

Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta is expected to present the Mid-year budget to Parliament today, Monday, July 31, 2023. This anticipated review will focus on outlining a comprehensive set of growth strategies, all with the overarching objective of promoting greater stability and prosperity for Ghana's economy.

Ghana, like many other countries, faces substantial economic challenges occasioned by the COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine. These external factors have influenced the nation's economic trajectory significantly.

However, through the Mid-year budget, the government is said to be seeking to tackle these issues and capitalize on opportunities for growth. By adopting effective strategies and policies, the government aims to steer the country's economy towards a positive trajectory.

Notably, the energy and cocoa sectors are rumored to have been earmarked for transformation in the Mid-year budget, as they play pivotal roles in Ghana's economic landscape.

Sources at the Ministry of Finance say that the energy and cocoa sector reform agenda, part of a broader Transformation and Growth Agenda, aims to address immediate policy and financing challenges while propelling the nation towards greater stability and prosperity.

It is believed that the “Ghana Mutual Prosperity Dialogue Framework” will serve as a cornerstone of these reforms, promoting shared growth anchored on job creation, exports, and import substitution.

Energy sector reforms are expected to focus on ensuring reliable and efficient energy supply, crucial for industrial growth and the overall economy.

Addressing weaknesses in this sector will attract investments, stimulate economic activities, and pave the way for job creation.

Similarly, the cocoa sector, being one of Ghana's key agricultural exports, is set to undergo significant modernization to boost production, improve value addition, and increase export earnings, thereby benefiting farmers and communities dependent on cocoa cultivation.

A revitalized cocoa sector can indeed play a pivotal role in driving inclusive growth and poverty reduction.

By targeting these key sectors and implementing strategic reform measures, the government aims to create a conducive environment for private sector-led investments, which can further boost economic growth.

Meanwhile, the emphasis on sustainable economic growth and development aligns with long-term objectives to improve the overall standard of living and quality of life for the people of Ghana.