YADD Urges Government to Harness Cedi Appreciation, Fuel Price Drops to Boost Development Funds
The Youth Alliance for Democratic Development (YADD) Ghana has called on the Government of Ghana to strategically take advantage of the recent appreciation of the Ghana Cedi and the corresponding reduction in fuel prices to introduce targeted development-focused levies that will strengthen critical national funds and address long-standing infrastructure gaps.
In a statement issued today, YADD emphasized that the current macroeconomic improvement presents a rare opportunity for the government to mobilize sustainable domestic revenue without imposing undue hardship on citizens. The youth group proposed the introduction and strengthening of purpose-driven levies, including a Research and Innovation Fund Levy to support applied research, technology development, and evidence-based policymaking, particularly in agriculture, industry, and climate resilience.
YADD also recommended the creation of an Agricultural Mechanization and Modernization Fund to accelerate access to farm machinery, reduce post-harvest losses, improve productivity, and make agriculture more attractive to young people. In addition, the organization urged a significant increase in the Road Fund levy aimed at financing road construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance, noting that poor road infrastructure continues to undermine economic growth, increase transportation costs, and compromise safety across the country. Strengthening the Road Fund, the group said, would improve connectivity between rural and urban areas, boost trade, and support inclusive development.
The Alliance stressed that any additional levies must be modest and well-timed, taking advantage of reduced fuel prices. They also emphasized that such funds must be ring-fenced and transparently managed, with clear reporting on utilization, and subject to parliamentary oversight and citizen accountability mechanisms. YADD highlighted that when citizens see clear links between levies paid and tangible development outcomes—such as better roads, modernized agriculture, and innovation-driven growth—public trust in fiscal policy will improve.
The youth group further urged the government to engage civil society organizations, youth groups, and industry stakeholders in consultations to ensure broad consensus and shared ownership of these policy measures.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, James K. Martey-Nitse, Executive Director of YADD, reaffirmed the youth group’s commitment to promoting responsible governance, fiscal accountability, and youth-centered development policies that advance Ghana’s democratic and economic progress.
YADD’s call comes at a critical moment as Ghana experiences favorable economic conditions, offering a unique chance for the government to implement measures that can sustainably fund national development and reduce long-standing infrastructure deficits.
Signed:
James K. Martey-Nitse
Executive Director
