Jobs Will Not Be Sacrificed – Ofori-Atta Assures Amidst Economic Recovery Efforts

Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has assured that the government’s efforts to revive the economy would not lead to job losses.

He said job creation would remain a priority despite the conditionalities associated with seeking support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

“Government is very intentional in ensuring that growth and job creation are not sacrificed in the process of restoring macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability.”

The sector minister gave this assurance at a presser on Sunday, June 18.

Mr Ofori-Atta added that specific interventions had been implemented to support the ongoing economic recovery programme to protect local businesses and safeguard employment opportunities for the population.

He listed key strategies such as enhancing the business environment, reducing business costs, and bolstering export competitiveness, to protect jobs.

Mr Ofori-Atta also revealed plans to review local content legislation to encourage foreign direct investment (FDI), capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He also said by promoting entrepreneurship through initiatives like the You Start Programme; the government aims to create more job opportunities, particularly within the banking sector and faith-based organizations.

In line with the Ghana Cares Obaatanpa programme, Ofori-Atta underscored the accelerated implementation of growth-oriented projects.

Notable among these projects is the economic initiatives aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in rice, maize, vegetables, and poultry.

Additionally, the Development Bank of Ghana will support large-scale agriculture and agribusiness interventions.

Recognizing the importance of a digital economy, Mr Ofori-Atta emphasized the need to enhance productivity, tax collection, and formality by transitioning to a digital ecosystem.

Expanding digital government services and promoting the country’s digital currency will foster digitalization and financial inclusion.