As Ghana prepares for its National Economic Dialogue on March 3, 2025, financial analyst Dr. Richmond Atuahene is calling for a focused discussion on three critical areas: debt management, strategic indigenization, and agriculture.

Dr. Atuahene warns that Ghana’s high debt levels, currently at 72.2% of GDP, pose a significant threat to the country’s economic stability. He emphasizes the need for practical solutions to reduce debt, boost local businesses, and enhance food security.

Key Issues to Address-

Debt Overhang Situation: Dr. Atuahene stresses that discussions must center on how to reposition the economy to meet debt obligations ahead. The dialogue should also prioritize reducing the rate of debt accumulation.

Indigenization: The analyst believes that Ghana’s critical sectors, such as banking, mining, and oil & gas, should be indigenized to reduce foreign dominance and the associated risks. He suggests that Ghana can learn from Nigeria’s approach, where strategic sectors are largely controlled by indigenes.

Agriculture

Dr. Atuahene emphasizes the need to transform the agricultural sector to curb food inflation and reduce reliance on imports. He proposes supporting key sectors like cocoa, maize, poultry, and rice production.The National Economic Dialogue, themed “Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together,” aims to bring experts together to brainstorm solutions for Ghana’s economic challenges. Dr. Atuahene’s recommendations come at a critical time, as Ghana seeks to address its economic woes and achieve sustainable growth and development.