'VP Opoku-Agyemang is my favourite economist' - Kwame Pianim

Economist and member of the Presidential Advisory Group on the Economy (PAGE), Kwame Pianim, has described Vice-President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as his favourite economist, praising her focus on how economic policies affect ordinary Ghanaians.

Speaking at the launch of the Ghana National Association of Teachers’ (GNAT) “Thank You Teacher” National Raffle, Pianim said the Vice President consistently brings discussions about the economy back to the daily struggles of vulnerable people.

“Whenever we are talking macroeconomics at the Presidential Advisory Group on the Economy, she always says, how does it help the single mother in the village, the woman entrepreneur?” he said.

According to him, her concerns also extend to young women selling goods in difficult conditions and young people seeking better opportunities.

“How does it help the young girls working in the heat, selling things? How does it help the young person in Ghana?” he recalled her asking.

The renowned economist said these questions serve as a reminder that economic policies must ultimately improve people's lives.

“She makes you realise that macroeconomics, everything boils down to the state, the status, the well-being of the average Ghanaian,” he stated.

Pianim also challenged Ghana’s political leaders to show greater concern for the poor, arguing that empathy could drive significant national progress.

“And if the political elite of Ghana were to have 10% empathy for the poor, this country in 10 years’ time will be better than Singapore,” he said.

DR/MA