Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social, and Economic Research (ISSER), Professor Peter Quartey, has emphasized the significance of strategically investing funds obtained from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) into productive sectors.

During an interview on JoyNews' PM Express, Prof Quartey emphasized that the funds received from the IMF should not be considered as "free money." Instead, he stressed the importance of directing investments towards sectors that would spur economic growth and generate sustainable income.

Prof. Quartey underscored the importance of steering clear from using the resources for consumptive purposes, as such an approach could impede the country's capacity to fulfill repayment obligations in the future.

The Director emphasized that top priority should be accorded to infrastructure development, specifically highlighting the significance of investing in roads. These road investments should focus on facilitating the efficient transportation of goods from production areas to consumption centers and ports for export.

He argued that well-maintained roads would not only reduce travel time but also enhance productivity, particularly in key production areas like Kumasi.

Prof Quartey advocated for diversifying the use of funds into areas such as agricultural support, credit, and agricultural insurance.

He also mentioned the significance of adding value to production and supporting initiatives like "Planting for Food and Jobs 2.0."

However, he stressed the importance of ensuring that these funds are allocated judiciously to the right individuals and sectors that contribute positively to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“Some of the funds can go into that but we should make sure that they go into the right areas and be dispersed to the right kind of people who will produce and add to our GDP. And also add value to whatever we produce,” he said on Thursday.