By Alex Ababio
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has engaged market traders, including head porters, popularly known as kayayei, at Makola Market to discuss their concerns and expectations ahead of the 2025 Budget presentation on Tuesday, March 11.
Describing the interaction as an invaluable opportunity, Dr. Forson emphasized the significant role these traders play in sustaining Ghana’s economy.
“It was a privilege to engage with these hardworking Ghanaians who toil daily to keep our economy running,” he said.
Sharing details of the engagement on social media, he added, “We just concluded an insightful discussion with market women, kayayei, and other traders at Makola. Their voices matter, and their expectations ahead of Budget 2025 will help shape policies that impact their livelihoods.”
Accompanied by his deputy, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, the Finance Minister addressed key economic challenges affecting small-scale traders, including inflation, taxation, and limited access to credit.
Dr. Forson assured them that their concerns would be factored into the government’s policy decisions.
“We are committed to policies that ease the burden on traders and create opportunities for their businesses to thrive,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the government has approved the 2025 fiscal policy document ahead of its official presentation to Parliament on March 11.
The decision, reached during a special Cabinet meeting on Friday, March 7, underscores the administration’s commitment to economic stabilization and sustainable growth.
