President John Dramani Mahama has assured that Ghana’s ongoing programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will mark the country’s final bailout, as his administration strives to foster a robust and self-reliant economy free from reliance on external financial aid.
The President made this declaration during his address at the Annual New Year School and Conference in Accra on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He indicated that Ghana is set to conclude the IMF Extended Credit Facility programme by mid-year, expressing optimism that the nation will not seek IMF assistance again.
President Mahama highlighted the success of the IMF programme but emphasized the need for Ghana to prioritize enhancing domestic revenue collection, reinstating fiscal responsibility, and bolstering confidence in the financial sector. He noted that true economic resilience goes beyond austerity measures and must be rooted in production, inclusivity, and shared prosperity.
The President also unveiled significant infrastructure initiatives, including the start of construction on the Accra-Kumasi Expressway this year. He deemed the existing single-lane connection between Ghana’s two major cities as inadequate, pointing to the severe traffic congestion witnessed during the recent Christmas and New Year festivities.
Furthermore, President Mahama announced plans for a Green Digital City across the Greater Accra, Eastern, and Volta regions. He explained that this development would accommodate certain government offices and institutions to alleviate congestion in Accra, clarifying that it would not supplant the capital but function as a smart, innovative hub to advance national progress.
On human capital development, the President underscored education, skills training, health, and innovation as pillars of sustainable growth. He reiterated the government’s dedication to the Digital Youth Village and Centre for Digital Youth Development at the University of Ghana, revealing additional funding to expand the project and create 16 digital hubs of excellence nationwide.
In terms of governance, President Mahama stated that his administration is fortifying anti-corruption bodies while advancing accountability, transparency, and national discipline. He disclosed intentions to launch an independent Value for Money Office this year to guarantee efficient utilization of public resources.
He also affirmed that the prohibition on ministers and public officials traveling first class continues to be enforced, cautioning that violators would face sanctions.
In closing, President Mahama emphasized that achieving sustainable development demands accountable leadership and engaged citizenship, reaffirming his government’s resolve to cultivate an economy that is resilient, inclusive, and independent of IMF bailouts.
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