Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that Ghana has attained a moderate risk of debt distress, marking the first time the country has reached that status since 2013 and signaling a significant improvement in the nation’s debt sustainability outlook.
Addressing Parliament, while presenting four statutory reports, Dr. Forson said the achievement reflects the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, transparency, and prudent economic management.
According to the Minister, Ghana has successfully transitioned from an unsustainable debt position to a high-risk category and has now progressed further to a moderate risk of debt distress.
“Mr. Speaker, I am proud to inform the House that Ghana, for the first time since 2013, has achieved a moderate risk of debt distress, moving from unsustainable debt to high risk of debt distress and now to a moderate risk of debt distress,” he told lawmakers.
The Finance Minister presented reports on the administration and utilisation of proceeds from the Energy Sector Levies, petroleum revenue receipts and transfers, as well as the implementation of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects across the economy.
He also laid before Parliament the 2025 reconciliation report on the Petroleum Holding Fund in accordance with the provisions of the Petroleum Revenue Management Act.
Dr. Forson explained that the report provides a comprehensive account of petroleum revenues received by the state and outlines how the funds were deployed, particularly towards addressing legacy debts in the energy sector.
“The report details how the monies received and accrued to the state from petroleum-related taxes were utilised, especially in relation to the management of energy sector debt recovery,” he stated.
The Minister noted that the reports contain extensive information that would be examined by the relevant parliamentary committees. He assured lawmakers that officials from the Ministry of Finance would provide further explanations and clarifications when invited during committee deliberations.
He said the submissions form part of the government’s efforts to strengthen accountability in the management of public resources and ensure compliance with statutory reporting requirements.
The announcement of Ghana’s improved debt distress rating comes amid ongoing fiscal reforms and debt restructuring efforts aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, rebuilding investor confidence, and creating a stronger foundation for economic growth.
