2025 Budget Good Enough to Transform Ghana – Hon. Eric Afful
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Amenfi West, Hon. Eric Afful, has expressed optimism about the 2025 Budget, describing it as adequate to bring about significant transformation in Ghana.
Hon. Afful’s comments followed the presentation of the 2025 Budget statement and economic policy by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassel Ato Forson, on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in Parliament.
Speaking on the implications of the budget for agriculture-dominated areas, Hon. Afful highlighted key points he found particularly noteworthy.
One of the major aspects that stood out for him was the allocation of dedicated funding for the Free Senior High School (SHS) program.
He commended the government’s decision to utilize the GETFund for this purpose, noting that the lack of dedicated funding for Free SHS had long been a serious issue.
According to the Finance Minister, about 4.5 million Ghanaian students will benefit from the uncapped GETFund, with the Free SHS program expected to cost approximately 3.5 billion Ghanaian cedis for either two or three semesters.
“This is a very positive development. The issue of funding for Free SHS will now be a thing of the past, and I am very pleased with this step,” Hon. Afful remarked.
Another key highlight for Hon. Afful was the emphasis on the “Big Push” program, which is set to significantly boost infrastructure development across the country.
The budget earmarks approximately 13.8 billion Ghanaian cedis for this initiative, which will focus on improving roads, telecommunication services, transport systems, education infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and more.
Hon. Afful believes the Big Push will generate multiple positive effects, benefitting a wide range of sectors and individuals, including architects, nurses, and carpenters.
“The Big Push will have a substantial impact on the economy and bring about much-needed development in the country. This is a major government expenditure that will create opportunities for many people,” he said.
The Amenfi West MP also applauded the government’s decision to introduce monthly allowances for assembly members, a move he called “historical and unprecedented.”
The budget allocates about 100 million Ghanaian cedis to provide assembly members with allowances, which will amount to roughly 1,200 cedis per month per member. He believes this gesture will greatly benefit local administration and governance.
He however emphasized the importance of securing the necessary funds to ensure the successful implementation of all the programs outlined in the budget and expressed confidence that these initiatives will significantly contribute to the development of Ghana.
Source: Felix Nyaaba// expressnewsghana.com
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