Ghana’s Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, has been named Africa’s Most Outstanding Finance Minister of 2025, a recognition that affirms his growing influence on the continent and highlights Ghana’s evolving economic leadership.
The accolade, confirmed by official reports this week, honours Dr Forson for his leadership in steering Ghana’s economic policy through a challenging period marked by fiscal reforms, debt restructuring, and strategic partnerships that have helped stabilise key macroeconomic indicators.
Minister Forson, a seasoned economist and chartered accountant, was appointed Minister for Finance in January 2025 by President John Dramani Mahama following his return to government. Since taking office, he has overseen a series of fiscal initiatives aimed at tightening public finances, boosting revenue mobilisation, and fostering investor confidence. These efforts coincided with Ghana’s credit outlook being upgraded by international rating agencies, signalling improved economic prospects.
Under Dr Forson’s stewardship, the Ministry of Finance has pursued a disciplined approach to budget management and structural reform. Data released earlier this year showed notable improvements in revenue performance, including a significant uptick in state-owned enterprise receipts, such as a nearly 90 % increase in monthly revenue for the Electricity Company of Ghana.
In addition to domestic reforms, Dr Forson played a central role in securing international support for Ghana’s development agenda. Notably, his ministry facilitated a multi-million-dollar grant agreement with the African Development Bank (AfDB) to fund critical infrastructure feasibility studies that are expected to catalyse future investment.
The award as Africa’s Most Outstanding Finance Minister places Dr Forson among the continent’s top economic policymakers and reflects a broader recognition of Ghana’s fiscal achievements amid global uncertainties. It also underscores the government’s intent to strengthen macroeconomic stability while advancing inclusive growth.
Observers say the honour could boost Ghana’s profile in regional and continental forums, particularly as the country prepares to host key financial conferences and deepen cooperation with African development institutions.
Source: ADC Leadership Awards
Ato Forson engages traders, ‘kayayei’ at Makola ahead of Budget presentation