Ghana to exit IMF programme with dignity, not as supplicant – President Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana is on course to exit its International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme by April 2026, citing significant improvements in key macroeconomic indicators and renewed investor confidence.

Speaking at the Ghana–Zambia Business Dialogue in Lusaka, President Mahama said sustained fiscal reforms have stabilised the economy, with inflation easing, foreign reserves strengthening, and confidence gradually returning.

He noted that the improving outlook positions Ghana to expand trade and investment, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

According to the President, the government’s development agenda is anchored on five strategic pillars: industrialisation and value addition; export-led growth; modern infrastructure development; strong support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), women and youth entrepreneurs; and the creation of a predictable, transparent, and investor-friendly business environment.

“We have restructured our debt to invest in people, not just to service loans. This is what ‘Resetting Ghana’ means, and it is delivering results,” President Mahama said. He pointed to the sharp decline in inflation from over 23.4 per cent at the end of 2024 to 3.8 per cent in January 2026, as well as the restoration of currency stability, with the Ghanaian cedi appreciating by 32 per cent to rank among the world’s five best-performing currencies in 2025.

President Mahama added that Ghana has successfully renegotiated its debt obligations on terms that protect national sovereignty and ensure sustainability.

“We are steadily exiting the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility with dignity as partners, not as supplicants,” he stressed.

He further noted that Ghana’s economic recovery has positive implications beyond its borders, contributing to regional confidence and integration.

Describing Zambia as a natural partner, the President said complementarities between the two economies—particularly in mining, agriculture, energy, and manufacturing—offer strong prospects for joint ventures, value-chain development, and expanded bilateral trade.