Building financial buffers can end IMF dependence – Prof Gatsi

In an interview with Citi Business News, Professor John Gatsi, an economist and member of the National Economic Dialogue Planning Committee, stressed that Ghana must build robust financial buffers to break its cycle of IMF bailouts.

He attributed the country’s 17 IMF interventions including a $3 billion Extended Credit Facility in 2022 to poor economic management, fiscal deficits, inadequate domestic revenue, and rising debt levels.

Gatsi emphasized that disciplined fiscal policies, improved revenue generation, effective debt management, and strategic investments in productive sectors are essential to create these safeguards.

As Dean of the University of Cape Coast Business School, he warned against relying on the IMF for every setback, insisting that self-reliance and strong financial buffers are essential for lasting economic stability and sovereignty.