We’re determined to ensure every programme delivers maximum efficiency and impact – Finance Minister

The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, emphasized the need to tackle fiscal indiscipline. This issue is especially prevalent among public institutions. Many continue to award contracts without securing required commencement certificates.

Dr. Forson stated that these practices lead to inefficiencies and budget shortfalls. To address this, he announced an amendment to the Public Financial Management (PFM) Act. This change allows the Ministry of Finance to issue commencement authorizations directly.

This shift aims to improve control and accountability over public spending. He also revealed plans for a Compliance Desk within the Ministry. This desk will enforce the updated PFM Act of 2025 rigorously.

Dr. Forson made this announcement during a meeting with a World Bank delegation led by Vice President Ousmane Diagana. The meeting followed the successful National Economic Dialogue, which received strong support from the World Bank.

The Compliance Desk will monitor ministries and departments for adherence to financial regulations. It will introduce a Compliance League Table ranking institutions based on compliance levels.

This initiative aims to promote transparency and improve financial discipline in the public sector. Institutions that fail to comply will face sanctions, reinforcing a zero-tolerance approach to fiscal mismanagement.

Vice President Diagana congratulated Dr. Forson on his appointment and praised Ghana's progress in public financial systems. He reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s development efforts.

The Compliance Desk is set to begin operations in the coming weeks as part of broader reforms for a more disciplined and prosperous Ghana.