Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is expected to present the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on Wednesday, November 13, sources close to the Finance Ministry have confirmed.
The proposed date, which awaits formal approval by Parliament, will mark the first full-year budget of the Mahama administration since returning to power in 2025. It will also be the government’s most significant fiscal policy presentation yet, following nearly nine months of steering the economy through a challenging global and domestic environment.
Economic observers say the 2025 Budget, which was presented shortly after the administration took office, largely operated within the fiscal framework inherited from the previous government. The upcoming 2026 Budget, however, is expected to signal a major policy shift, reflecting the government’s own economic priorities and development agenda.
Under the Public Financial Management Act, the Finance Minister—acting on behalf of the President—is mandated to present the national budget to Parliament not later than November 15 each year.
Stakeholder Engagements and Consultations
The Finance Ministry has completed several rounds of stakeholder engagements, including meetings with industry leaders, civil society organisations, and development partners.
These consultations, according to sources, were crucial in finalising the policy measures and expenditure priorities that will shape the 2026 fiscal blueprint.
Focus on Jobs and Growth
Dr. Forson has previously hinted that the 2026 Budget will prioritise job creation and economic growth, with targeted investments in sectors that can drive productivity, innovation, and youth employment.
Insiders at the Ministry indicate that the document will also outline a comprehensive tax reform agenda—aimed at broadening the revenue base while easing the tax burden on households and businesses.
The Finance Minister is expected to review several levies, including the COVID-19 levy, as part of measures to support business recovery and boost consumer confidence.
Preparing for a Post-IMF Economy
With Ghana set to exit the IMF programme in May 2026, the upcoming budget will be closely scrutinised for its post-programme strategy.
Economists and market watchers will be looking for signals on how the government intends to consolidate fiscal discipline while stimulating growth and maintaining macroeconomic stability.
Managing the Deficit and Expenditure
Another key focus will be how Dr. Forson plans to manage the fiscal deficit and expenditure levels amid rising debt service obligations and the need to finance critical infrastructure and social interventions.
As anticipation builds, businesses, investors, and development partners alike are keenly watching what could become the defining economic policy statement of the Mahama administration’s second year in office.
