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May 2, 2026
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Gov’t considers absorbing Western Rail Line reconstruction under Big Push Programme
Money
Policy
Opportunity
Growth
Key Points
- The Ghanaian government plans to incorporate the comprehensive overhaul of the Western Rail Line into its flagship 'Big Push' programme.
- This strategic move aims to revitalise trade by improving the efficient transfer of essential commodities like bauxite, manganese, and cocoa to the country's ports.
- It forms part of a broader government strategy focused on reviving defunct state-owned assets, with President Mahama noting the resumption of TOR operations and recapitalisation of ADB and NIB.
- President Mahama urged workers and union leaders to actively point out misconduct and operational inefficiencies in state enterprises rather than remaining passive.
- The TUC welcomed government efforts but stressed the necessity of a competitive and well-resourced private sector for sustainable employment, calling for measures to reduce borrowing costs for businesses.
Why This Matters
This article is significant for Ghana as it outlines a major infrastructure development and economic revitalization strategy, crucial for enhancing trade efficiency and industrial productivity, particularly in the Western Corridor. The focus on reviving state assets, alongside the emphasis on private sector growth and reducing borrowing costs, indicates a multi-faceted approach to stimulating the national economy and creating sustainable employment. These initiatives have the potential to boost Ghana's export capabilities and overall economic stability.
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August 24, 2026
GoldBod denies GH¢1bn BoG overdraft claim, demands retraction and apology from Boako
- The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has vehemently denied claims by MP Dr. Gideon Boako that it owes the Bank of Ghana (BoG) a GH¢1 billion overdraft.
- Dr. Boako, a Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, questioned GoldBod's reported GH¢907 million profit, stating an outstanding overdraft would reflect a loss.
- GoldBod labeled Dr. Boako’s claim as “totally false,” a “deliberate and malicious smear campaign,” and demanded a retraction and apology.
- This dispute is set against a broader political and economic debate concerning GoldBod’s financial performance and the accounting treatment of GH¢22 billion losses from the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).
- GoldBod asserts it has never taken any loan, overdraft, or debt instrument from the Bank of Ghana or any financial institution since its establishment.
August 24, 2026
GoldBod losses remain key on Minority agenda as Parliament reconvenes – Afenyo-Markin
- The NPP Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, reaffirmed the caucus's commitment to investigate a reported US$1.7 billion loss linked to the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme and the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).
- This commitment was reiterated after Afenyo-Markin met with NPP flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in Accra.
- Dr Bawumia commended the Minority Caucus for its accountability efforts and encouraged their continued work.
- The reported loss, equivalent to about 1.5% of Ghana’s GDP, will be a key issue for the Minority as Parliament reconvenes.
- The Minority is resolute in pursuing the matter to get answers for the Ghanaian public regarding the circumstances of the loss.
August 23, 2026
Why celebrate $2.62bn FDI while losing $1.7bn under the Domestic Gold Programme? IERPP asks
- The Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) welcomes Ghana's US$2.62 billion Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) as a sign of investor confidence.
- However, IERPP tempers this optimism with concern over an estimated GH¢22 billion (US$1.7 billion) loss from the Domestic Gold Purchase Program (DGPP).
- The DGPP loss is significant, equating to about 65 cents for every US$1 of FDI attracted, highlighting a major resource management issue.
- IERPP emphasizes that while FDI is crucial, it cannot substitute for prudent management and protection of existing public resources.
- The Institute calls for greater transparency, a clear breakdown of DGPP losses, and intense scrutiny from accountability institutions, Parliament, and civil society.

