Ghana has submitted a request to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for technical assistance to address issues related to corruption. This request aligns with Ghana’s commitments under the $3 billion IMF program, from which Ghana is expecting a second tranche of $600 million in November. The IMF program aims to address Ghana’s current economic challenges and promote transparency and anti-corruption efforts in the country.
As part of this program, the Ghanaian government has requested IMF technical assistance to conduct a governance corruption diagnostic assessment. This assessment will contribute to ongoing efforts to update the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan. Additionally, the government is expected to address weaknesses in the existing asset declaration system for public officials by enacting a new Conduct of Public Officers Act.
The IMF’s African Department Director, Abebe Aemro Selassie, provided an update on Ghana’s progress during a press briefing at the IMF-World Bank meetings in Marrakech, Morocco. This initiative is part of Ghana’s commitment to promoting good governance and combating corruption as outlined in the IMF program.
“On the governance diagnostic report, I think the request has been made [but] I’m not sure where we are in terms of being able to provide that, but as soon as we have the resources, we will do that. And it’s just a matter of time I believe.”
Meanwhile, the IMF says it will provide all that is needed to the creditors, so Ghana can get the second tranche of IMF cash and move the programme forward.
“Action is also needed from the creditor side and I have to tell you that, you know, whereas it took I think something like 9 months or more for Zambia to get the official creditor committee to be created, in Ghana’s case it was fairly rapid. So that’s what allowed us to go to the board and get the programme approved. And we’re very hopeful that the ongoing discussions among official creditors will also expeditiously allow us to conclude the upcoming review. Again the most recent Mission you know reached an agreement with the government on policies that are needed to tackle the most recent issues and also put in place an important budget for next year. So Ghana has done its fair share, and it’s for creditors to take steps, and we’re not going to be asking the government to do more adjustments because creditors haven’t asked either, so you know we will provide all the information necessary, so creditors can move to allow us to go to the board as soon as possible,” Abebe Aemro Selassie added.
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