Outgoing Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has expressed his commitment to the prudent management of resources allocated during his tenure.
He aimed to bolster economic growth, enhance social welfare, and facilitate infrastructural development.
In a letter of appreciation issued on Wednesday, February 14, Mr. Ofori-Atta emphasized the importance of safeguarding vulnerable segments of society through implemented initiatives. He noted that these efforts have led to significant progress and contributed to an improved quality of life for Ghanaians.
“We reminded ourselves that we had only two fishes and five loaves for the monumental task ahead while ensuring a deliberateness of the preferential options for the poor and promoting private sector productivity. Since March 2020, our four (4) budgets, however have focused on protecting lives, preserving livelihoods and recovering from the impact of the, that truly once-in-a- lifetime apocalyptic pandemic, COVID-19, as well as geopolitical upheavals. Indeed, amidst these poly-crises, we at MoF stood strong as the Midwives of the Republic to help ease the pain on our Fellow Citizens.
“Through prudent financial management and strategic allocation of resources, we have pursued initiatives aimed at boosting economic growth, promoting social welfare, and expanding infrastructural development. As a result of these efforts, our country has experienced remarkable progress.”
He also expressed confidence in his successor, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, urging Ministry of Finance staff to support him.
Mr Ofori-Atta thanked the staff for their service and commitment, encouraging them to uphold professionalism, ethics, efficiency, and responsiveness.
He emphasized his vision for a Ghana Beyond Aid and described Dr. Amin Adam as a smart, humble, and inclusive leader, stressing the importance of collective effort for a successful tenure.
“The future is here with us as we are blessed with a new leader, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, who replaced the venerable Charles Adu Boahen and has been with us through some of the most difficult times. Let us all circle the wagons and ensure a blazing success for his stewardship.
“We all know him as a smart, humble and inclusive leader. Let me state with all humility that nothing would honour me and the ‘Office of the Minister’ more than for you to work with renewed diligence to guide Hon. Amin and our nation to the successful execution of the IMF-ECF programme to promote economic growth and transformation.
“Once again, I thank you for your tireless service and commitment to excellence. It has been my utmost honour and a rare privilege to serve alongside each, and every one of you. I pray that you continue to be resolute, dedicated, unwavering and committed to the work of the Republic and care for the finances of the State.”
President Akufo-Addo appointed Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam as the new Finance Minister on February 14, replacing Ken Ofori-Atta, who served in the position for seven years. The appointment was part of a ministerial reshuffle announced on the same day.
Despite facing challenges and calls for his dismissal from some members of Parliament, Ken Ofori-Atta served as Ghana’s longest-serving finance minister.
In October 2022, around 80 NPP MPs demanded his resignation due to the country’s struggling economy, with similar calls from the NDC parliamentary caucus in February 2023.
However, President Akufo-Addo rejected these calls, urging Parliament to wait until discussions with the IMF were concluded.