Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson is Ghana's Finance Minister
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The government has released over GH¢9.7 billion in coupon payments under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), in what officials describe as a renewed commitment to restoring investor confidence and fiscal credibility.

In a Press release issued by the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, the government confirmed the payment of GH¢9,698,815,220.17 to bondholders — the latest tranche in its ongoing efforts to meet obligations under the DDEP.

The move brings total disbursements under the programme this year alone to approximately GH¢19.4 billion.

According to the Ministry, the payment is not merely procedural but forms part of a broader strategy to rebuild trust in Ghana’s public finance management and assure stakeholders of the state’s commitment to honouring its debt obligations.

“This payment shows our unwavering commitment to meeting our obligations on time,” the Ministry said, adding that all future payments under the programme will be fulfilled in full.

In a further show of intent, the government has introduced two new mechanisms — a Cedi Sinking Fund and a US Dollar Sinking Fund — designed to provide financial buffers for bonds maturing in 2026, 2027, and 2028.

The Domestic Debt Exchange Programme, first rolled out in 2022, has been a key — and often controversial — component of Ghana’s economic recovery efforts. Critics have questioned the sustainability of the plan, while others have warned of its impact on investor appetite and the banking sector.

However, analysts suggest the latest payment may help ease some of those concerns. For both institutional bondholders and everyday Ghanaians, the announcement could mark a turning point in restoring confidence in the economy.

The Ministry reiterated that it remains committed to prudent debt management and timely repayment as Ghana works toward long-term economic stability.

BY COFFIE MAWUEDEM NOEL