University of Ghana Business School senior lecturer and economist, Dr. Priscilla Twumasi-Baffour, has described the 2025 Budget’s growth projections as measured and cautious.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, March 15, 2025, she observed that although the government’s 4% growth target is reasonable, it falls short of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) 4.7% forecast.

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Her remarks came after Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson delivered the 2025 Budget Statement on March 11, outlining plans to stabilize the economy and stimulate growth.

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Dr. Twumasi-Baffour believes the government’s conservative projection reflects both economic caution and the uncertainties surrounding the recovery process.“The government’s growth estimate appears to be on the lower side, especially considering the IMF’s more optimistic outlook of 4.7%,” she remarked.

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She attributed the government’s reserved stance to external economic factors and Ghana’s fiscal challenges but emphasized that stronger support for critical sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services could lead to better-than-expected growth.

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“If the right policies are implemented effectively, we could see growth exceeding the 4% target,” she noted.

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Additionally, she underscored the significance of structural reforms in ensuring long-term economic expansion.

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She urged the government to prioritize increasing productivity, strengthening domestic industries, and enhancing the business climate to sustain growth beyond 2025.“Achieving higher growth requires deliberate efforts to address structural bottlenecks and improve investor confidence,” she advised.

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