Cassiel Ato Forson pays GH₵24.8bn to statutory funds since January

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced that the government has disbursed GH₵24.8 billion to various statutory funds between January and the third quarter of 2026. This significant financial release is designed to bolster essential services across the country, specifically targeting sectors such as education, healthcare, road maintenance, and local development infrastructure. Dr. Forson emphasized that these payments have been made on time and in full, marking a departure from previous fiscal cycles characterized by delays, arrears, and the practice of capping.

The funds have been distributed to several critical state institutions and programs, including the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the Free Senior High School (SHS) Programme, and the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). Additionally, the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) has received its allocations, which are vital for infrastructure development at the local level. The Finance Minister noted that by ensuring timely transfers, the government is enabling these institutions to plan their operations and execute projects with greater efficiency and predictability.

Supporting these fiscal measures, Abanga Yakubu Alhassan, the National Third Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), stated that the current administration's approach reflects a deep commitment to expenditure control and transparency. He highlighted that requiring ministries and agencies to justify their spending promotes prudent financial management and ensures public funds are used effectively. According to Alhassan, these initiatives align with President John Mahama’s broader agenda to safeguard resources for the welfare of all Ghanaians.

The timely disbursement of the GH₵24.8 billion is expected to have a direct impact on the delivery of social services and the completion of ongoing infrastructure projects. By maintaining this level of fiscal discipline and ensuring that statutory obligations are met without delay, the government aims to restore confidence in the management of public finances. This consistent funding schedule is seen as a key component of the administration's strategy to provide a stable foundation for national development and improve the daily lives of citizens.