Deputy Trade Minister Hon. Sampson Ahi Urges Traders to Reduce Prices, Says Appreciation of the Cedi Is Real

Hon. Sampson Ahi, Deputy Minister for Trade and Agribusiness, has dismissed claims by opposition parties that the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi is artificial, calling such statements politically motivated.
Speaking on Maakye on Kessben TV, Hon. Ahi praised the government’s introduction of the Goldbod initiative as a key factor behind the strengthening of the local currency.

“Gold smuggling has significantly reduced thanks to Goldbod. It has helped stabilize the cedi, and all the noise from the opposition is just political tactics,” he said.
Hon. Ahi questioned the logic behind some of the narratives being pushed by critics.
“If the dollar had risen to GHS 20 today, would they have said it was because of Mahama? If they blame the cedi’s appreciation on the off-season or foreign tariffs, then we should be seeing that effect across other currencies too,” he argued.

He urged the public to recognize the gains made so far and shift focus to how best to sustain the progress.
“Let’s not politicize everything. The right thing now is to find ways to maintain this momentum,” he added.
Addressing concerns about the high cost of goods and services, Hon. Ahi revealed that the government has engaged with traders and trade unions, urging them to begin reducing prices, especially at the wholesale level.

“We have met with traders, and very soon you’ll see price drops at the wholesale stage, which we expect to reflect in the retail market as well,” he assured.
The Deputy Minister encouraged Ghanaians to remain hopeful as the government continues to implement measures that will bring relief to households and businesses.

By: Adeline Mumuni