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Ghana beats IMF reserve target ahead of schedule

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Ghana has surpassed a key milestone under its IMF programme—more than a year ahead of schedule.

According to a recent update following a staff-level agreement between the government and the International Monetary Fund, Ghana’s gross international reserves have already exceeded the target set for May 2026.

Fresh data from the Bank of Ghana shows that as of February 2025, the country’s gross international reserves stood at $9.3 billion—equivalent to four months of import cover.

Under the IMF programme, Ghana was expected to reach this threshold by mid-2026.

This early achievement is seen as a major boost to investor confidence and could bolster the stability of the Cedi in the coming months.

Analysts say unless the economy is hit by any major external shocks, Ghana is well-positioned to exit the IMF programme with stronger reserve buffers.

The anticipated disbursement of $370 million from the IMF in June 2025 is also expected to further support the central bank’s efforts to sustain macroeconomic stability.

Market watchers maintain that the Bank of Ghana should continue refining its liquidity-tightening tools while ensuring proactive monitoring of foreign exchange markets to prevent excessive speculation.

Adding that enhanced coordination between fiscal and monetary policies will help anchor inflation expectations and stabilize the Cedi.

Source: Citi Newsroom

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Fuel Prices Set to Drop from June 16 After Levy Suspension

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Ghanaians can expect a drop in fuel prices starting Monday, June 16, 2025, following the government’s decision to suspend the proposed GH¢1.0 Energy Sector Levy. This comes as a relief to consumers and marks the seventh consecutive price reduction since mid-February.

 

The latest Pricing Outlook Report from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) indicates that the postponement of the levy is a key factor driving the anticipated price cuts.

 

Projected Prices at the Pump

According to data sourced from oil marketing firms and obtained by Joy Business, the new price of petrol is expected to be around GH¢11.77 per litre — representing a drop between 1.1% and 2.25% from prices recorded on June 1.

Diesel prices are set for a more significant decrease, falling by as much as 4.3% to about GH¢12.13 per litre. Likewise, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) will see a 3.2% dip, bringing the price per kilogram to GH¢13.30.

 

Why Are Prices Falling?

The Chamber attributes the downward trend primarily to the Ghana cedi’s continued appreciation against the US dollar. This currency strength has offset the impact of rising global oil prices, which surged amid renewed conflict in the Middle East.

 

Despite crude oil prices climbing to around $75 per barrel due to Israel’s military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, Ghanaian fuel prices remain stable — for now. The situation, however, remains volatile.

 

Warning Signs for July

Officials at COMAC caution that if global oil prices continue to climb, fuel prices in Ghana could begin to rise again starting July 1, 2025.

 

Recent escalations in the Middle East have already caused oil prices to rise sharply, with Brent crude jumping 4.41% from $65.35 to $68.23 per barrel. These tensions have also prompted the United States to partially evacuate its embassy in Iraq, adding to global uncertainty.

 

As a result, international benchmark prices for petrol and diesel have risen by 1.03% and 3.94% respectively. In contrast, LPG prices dropped by 1.79%.

 

Impact of the Suspended Levy

COMAC’s projections suggest that had the government gone ahead with the additional GH¢1.0 Energy Sector Levy, consumers would have faced significant price hikes. Petrol would have surged by 9.1% per litre and diesel by 8.25%. LPG would have still seen a modest 2.29% decline, as it was not included in the levy’s scope.

 

The current suspension offers temporary relief, but stakeholders warn that sustained global instability may force a reversal of the current trend in the coming weeks.

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PHOTOS: Otumfuo Urges Government to Cut Food Imports, Revive Interest in Farming

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The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has expressed deep concern over Ghana’s continued dependence on imported food items that can be cultivated locally.

He urged the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, to take bold steps to significantly reduce food imports and prioritize the development of local agriculture.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the Minister and his delegation at the Manhyia Palace on Friday, June 13, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized the need for urgent interventions to rekindle interest in farming, particularly among the youth.

The Asantehene recommended a possible revival of the historic “Operation Feed Yourself” initiative from the Acheampong era, should the government deem it necessary to revitalize the agricultural sector.

“It’s disheartening that we are still importing basic produce like tomatoes and onions. Work hard to halt or at least minimize food imports so we can produce more locally. I’ll be monitoring closely—make sure farmers get irrigation support,” he stressed.

Otumfuo also called on chiefs and traditional leaders across the country to contribute to national development by making land available for agricultural use, suggesting such lands could be offered as equity in farming ventures to encourage investment and productivity.

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TECNO Named Official Global Partner for CAF AFCON 2025 and 2027

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As excitement builds for the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced TECNO, the AI-powered technology brand and subsidiary of Transsion Holdings, as the Official Global Partner for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025, as well as the 2027 edition, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

This strategic partnership reflects TECNO’s vision of empowering young Africans through the intersection of technology and sports. With its brand philosophy, “Stop at Nothing,” TECNO aims to inspire and equip the next generation across the continent to pursue their dreams and reach new heights.

The announcement comes on the heels of TECNO’s successful collaboration with CAF during the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Côte d’Ivoire 2023, where the brand served as the exclusive smartphone sponsor. That partnership delivered record-breaking engagement and deepened TECNO’s investment in African football, laying the foundation for this renewed alliance.

CAF General Secretary, Véron Mosengo-Omba, made the announcement in Nairobi, Kenya, stating:

“The growing success of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations has led to several high-impact sponsorships. TECNO’s continued support will play a vital role in helping Africa’s biggest sporting event expand its reach and influence. On behalf of CAF and its 54 Member Associations, we express our sincere gratitude to TECNO for investing in the future of African football.”

Benjamin Jiang, Vice President of Transsion Holdings, also expressed enthusiasm about the renewed partnership:

“This collaboration is a reflection of the trust and shared success we’ve built with CAF. In our previous engagement, we witnessed how football sparked passion and how AI-powered technology connected and empowered millions across Africa.”

He continued:

“This partnership goes far beyond the game. It represents a shared ambition—a platform for young Africans to thrive, driven by innovation and progress. It underscores our commitment to using AI-driven solutions to shape a brighter future for the continent.”

As part of its pan-African commitment, TECNO is also continuing its “Dream Field Renovation” campaign, a community initiative launched with CAF in 2024. The project aims to renovate 100 football fields in underserved communities across Africa by 2028, promoting healthy living, youth engagement, and access to quality sports infrastructure.

About TECNO
TECNO is a global technology brand powered by artificial intelligence, operating in over 70 markets across five continents. The company is dedicated to transforming digital experiences in emerging markets through a bold blend of cutting-edge technology and contemporary design.

TECNO’s product ecosystem includes AI-enabled smartphones, wearables, laptops, tablets, gaming devices, the proprietary HiOS operating system, and smart home solutions. Guided by its brand ethos, “Stop at Nothing,” TECNO is committed to empowering forward-thinking individuals to unlock their potential and pursue a brighter future.

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