Connect with us

LOCAL NEWS

Ghana misses out on IMF’s 2nd tranche timeline as external debt restructuring talks drag

Published

on

Ghana has missed out on the November 1 timeline set in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme to get a second tranche of the $3 billion bailout package as the country’s debt rework negotiations with external creditors delay.

 

The Black Star of Africa is still in talks with its external creditors for debt relief worth $10.5 billion.

The country has already submitted proposals to its commercial creditors seeking a haircut of up to 40% and additional debt rework with its bilateral creditors including China and the Paris Club.

 

Checks from the Fund’s programme document reveal that Ghana has not been able to meet all the necessary financing assurances from its creditors to unlock the disbursement of the second tranche worth $600 million which was scheduled to hit Ghana’s account by November 1, 2023.

Prior to the first disbursement, Ghana had to secure financial assurance from its external creditors, a requirement fulfilled before the IMF Executive Board approved the payment.

Under the three-year ECF programme, the Ghanaian government plans to restructure around $10.5 billion of its external debt, which stood at nearly $30 billion in June 2023.

There have been differing opinions on the conditions for receiving the second tranche of $600 million, which would bring the total disbursement to $1.2 billion after the Fund’s first review.

Ghana’s Information Minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah in October, stated in an interview with JoyNews that he does not believe an agreement with external creditors is a prerequisite for the disbursement of the second installment.

“I don’t think that if we look at the fine print, that agreement is a condition precedent for accessing the next tranche” the minister expressed.

Earlier, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission Chief for Ghana, Stephane Roudet had disclosed to JoyNews in an interview that government must secure the required financing assurance from external bilateral creditors before its board can approve the next tranche of funds for the country.

“Just like we got the financing assurance before Ghana secured the IMF programme, this financing agreement from the external creditors is needed before the IMF board approves the first programme review” the Mission Chief stressed.

Given the differing opinions, it is crucial to examine the IMF’s stance on the actions Ghana needs to take in order to secure the second tranche of disbursement.

What does the fine print say?

On page 72 of Ghana’s IMF programme titled “REQUEST FOR AN ARRANGEMENT UNDER THE EXTENDED CREDIT FACILITY”, it is indicated that completion of the first review of the programme will grant Ghana access to the second tranche of $600 million. This implies that without the successful completion of the first review, it is highly unlikely for Ghana to acquire the additional $600 million.

Who can pass the first review?

According to the Fund’s Press Release (PRESS RELEASE NO. 23/339) on October 6 2023, “Ghana will have access to about US$600 million in financing once the review is approved by IMF Management and formally completed by the IMF Executive Board.”

What will make IMF Executive Board approve the first review?

According to the same IMF press release, for Ghana to “ensure timely completion of the review, the country needs official creditors to quickly reach agreement on a debt treatment in line with the financing assurances they provided in May 2023.”

IMF Managing Director

In less than 3 days after the contrasting opinions on what Ghana must do to gain the second tranche, the IMF’s Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva congratulated Ghana on the recent staff-level agreement on the Fund-supported program’s first review. She however stressed that the Fund is “counting on bilateral creditors reaching an agreement on debt relief soon to move the review forward.”

The IMF’s directive is explicit: Ghana is required to secure financial assurance from its external creditors before gaining access to the subsequent $600 million tranche. Reaching this agreement with creditors is anticipated to elevate the total disbursement under the Fund’s program to $1.2 billion.

Additionally, Ghana’s debt arrangement with foreign creditors is projected to release approximately $2.5 billion in 2023 alone, aiding in bridging Ghana’s Balance of Payment deficit.

 

Source: Myjoyonline.com

 

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

LOCAL NEWS

MTN Ghana Introduces New Tariffs Effective November 28, 2023

Published

on

By

MTN

 

 

On November 28, 2023, MTN Ghana implemented new tariffs, marking a significant change in the cost structure for their services. This move has captured the attention of consumers, prompting them to evaluate how these adjustments will impact their communication expenses.

 

The telecommunications industry is dynamic, with companies frequently reassessing their pricing strategies to align with market demands, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. MTN Ghana, as a major player in this sector, regularly updates its tariffs to maintain competitiveness and provide sustainable services.

MTN

One of the notable changes in the new tariffs is the adjustments to call rates. Customers can anticipate shifts in the cost per minute for both on-net and off-net calls. This modification is likely to impact the communication habits of subscribers, influencing the choice between making calls within the MTN network or to other networks.

 

Additionally, data tariffs have seen revisions, reflecting the growing importance of mobile data in our digital age. As individuals increasingly rely on smartphones for various activities, including work, entertainment, and social interactions, understanding the adjustments to data tariffs is crucial. MTN Ghana aims to strike a balance between affordability and quality service, ensuring that users can access the internet without compromising on speed and reliability.

MTN

Moreover, the new tariffs might include changes to SMS charges. With the prevalence of instant messaging apps, traditional SMS usage has declined. However, for certain services and communication scenarios, text messages remain relevant. Subscribers should be aware of any modifications in SMS rates to manage their messaging expenses effectively.

 

It’s essential for MTN Ghana customers to stay informed about these tariff adjustments to make informed decisions based on their communication needs and budget. The company typically communicates such changes through various channels, including SMS notifications, social media updates, and announcements on their official website.

MTN

This tariff adjustment by MTN Ghana may be a response to various factors, such as inflation, infrastructure investments, or changes in regulatory requirements. Understanding the reasons behind these adjustments can provide customers with a broader perspective on the evolving telecommunications landscape.

 

The new tariffs implemented by MTN Ghana on November 28, 2023, underscore the dynamic nature of the telecommunications industry. Customers are encouraged to review the changes, assess their communication patterns, and make informed choices to ensure their mobile usage remains both convenient and cost-effective in this ever-evolving digital age.

MTN

The changes in MTN Ghana’s tariffs are expected to influence consumer behavior in several ways. With adjustments to call rates, subscribers may reconsider their communication preferences, opting for on-net calls to leverage more cost-effective options. This shift could potentially strengthen MTN’s network usage as customers seek ways to optimize their spending. Similarly, alterations in data tariffs may prompt users to reevaluate their data consumption habits, potentially leading to increased reliance on Wi-Fi networks or more judicious use of mobile data. Understanding these shifts in consumer behavior is crucial for both MTN Ghana and its subscribers, as it enables the company to tailor its services to meet evolving needs.

 

The telecommunications industry is highly competitive, with various providers vying for market share. MTN Ghana’s tariff adjustments are likely influenced by the need to remain competitive in this dynamic environment. Analyzing how these changes position MTN in comparison to other players in the market provides valuable insights into the company’s strategic approach. Additionally, consumers may compare the new tariffs with those of competitors, exploring potential benefits or drawbacks that could influence their decision to stay with MTN or consider alternative service providers.

 

Effective communication and transparency play a pivotal role in managing customer expectations during tariff adjustments. MTN Ghana must ensure that its subscribers are well-informed about the changes, providing clear explanations for the reasons behind the adjustments. Transparent communication fosters trust and helps mitigate any potential backlash from customers who may be resistant to changes in pricing. Additionally, proactive communication can guide users on how to navigate the new tariff structure, empowering them to make informed choices that align with their communication needs and budget constraints.

 

Telecommunications companies operate within a regulatory framework that can impact their pricing strategies. Changes in tariffs may be influenced by regulatory requirements, and understanding this aspect is essential for both the company and its users. MTN Ghana’s compliance with regulations ensures a stable and legal operating environment. Subscribers should be aware of any regulatory factors that contribute to these tariff adjustments, as this knowledge can provide context for the changes and help users appreciate the broader industry dynamics shaping their mobile communication experiences.

 

Source: Eghnews.com

 

Continue Reading

LOCAL NEWS

Let’s live harmoniously to safeguard Ghana’s peace – Peace Council on recent clashes

Published

on

By

The National Peace Council (NPC) has called on Ghanaians to live harmoniously with each other to safeguard the country’s peace.

It has urged Ghanaians to protect “the peace and security of the country by creating and using avenues of tolerance, cooperation, and coexistence to sustain the country’s identity as an oasis of peace in Africa.”

This follows the unfortunate violent clashes in some parts of the country which have resulted in the deaths of some citizens.

Reports from Kintampo in the Bono East Region, Nkwanta in the Oti Region, and Wenchiki in the Northeast Region indicate that violence has led to the destruction of lives and property in these affected communities.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the NPC reminded Ghanaians “of paragraphs (c), (d) and (i) of
article 41 of the 1992 constitution of the Republic of Ghana which states thus:  The exercise and enjoyment of rights and freedoms is inseparable from the performance of duties and obligations, and accordingly, it shall be the duty of every citizen.”

“To foster national unity and live in harmony with others;  to respect the rights, freedoms and legitimate interests of others, and generally to refrain from doing acts detrimental to the welfare of other persons. To co-operate with lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order.”

Read the full statement from the NPC here

 

 

citinewsroom.com

Continue Reading

LOCAL NEWS

Defence and National Security Ministers to appear before parliament today over Kintampo clash

Published

on

By

The Ministers of Defence and National Security are expected to appear before the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament on Thursday, November 23, to provide a briefing on actions being taken by the government to forestall a clash between the Mo and Wangara tribes in the Kintampo North municipality.

This comes on the back of a summons by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin.

According to the Member of Parliament for the area, Joseph Kwame Kumah, tensions were high when the Mo tribe requested to perform rituals within the months of November and December, coinciding with the annual Klubi festival of the Wangara community.

In response to calls for a ceasefire by the MP, the Speaker directed that the government must take immediate steps to ensure peaceful coexistence.

“As the first authorities to come to this house to brief the committee on Defense and Interior, this is an urgent matter that should be handled with dispatch. I think Thursday should be okay for the two ministers and their commanders to appear before the committee early tomorrow morning by 9 am to brief the committee. It is an urgent matter.”

“The National Security Council through their regional office should immediately intervene because the chieftaincy institution is one of the cornerstones of the peace and security of our country, and we hold that institution dearly. We will do everything to prevent that institution from falling into disarray,” he stated.

 

 

citinewsroom.com

Continue Reading

Trending

%d bloggers like this: