Finance Ministry Disburses GH¢10.82 Billion to DDEP Bondholders, Boosting Fiscal Credibility

19th August•2 min read•10 sources

The Government of Ghana has successfully disbursed GH¢10,816,840,318.26 to bondholders under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), marking a significant step in the nation's debt management strategy. This payment, announced by the Ministry of Finance, represents the third coupon payment made entirely in cash since the start of 2025. With this latest installment, the cumulative payments made to DDEP bondholders under the administration of President John Mahama have reached GH¢41.36 billion. The disbursement underscores the government's commitment to meeting its domestic debt obligations on schedule and in full, reflecting a shift toward greater fiscal discipline.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson emphasized that these payments are critical for restoring investor confidence and reducing the risk of a sovereign default. Speaking on the release of funds, Dr. Forson reaffirmed that the government is dedicated to fulfilling all its financial promises to ensure the stability of the domestic financial market. He noted that the timely servicing of these debts is being managed carefully to ensure that it does not impede critical government expenditures in other sectors. This consistent payment schedule is viewed by analysts as a vital signal to both local and international investors that Ghana is moving toward debt sustainability following its recent economic challenges.

Beyond domestic obligations, the government is also making strides in managing its international debt profile. During the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review, the Finance Minister highlighted that the state has also paid approximately $2.1 billion to Eurobond holders since January 2025. The DDEP itself aims to restructure approximately GH¢137 billion in domestic bonds. By maintaining a reliable payment record, the Ministry of Finance intends to rebuild trust with creditors and pave the way for Ghana’s eventual return to international capital markets, which is essential for long-term economic growth.

This proactive approach to debt servicing is expected to yield broader economic benefits, including the potential lowering of interest rates and the stabilization of the financial sector. As the government continues to navigate the complexities of the DDEP, the emphasis remains on transparency and consistency. Moving forward, the Ministry of Finance has assured the public and the investor community that subsequent payments will follow the established schedule, serving as a cornerstone for the country’s ongoing economic recovery and fiscal health under the current administration.

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Finance Ministry Disburses GH¢10.82 Billion to DDEP Bondholders, Boosting Fiscal Credibility

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