By Victoria Agyemang
Anomabo (C/R), Nov 14, GNA- As the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, read the 2026 National Budget in Parliament, many Ghanaians remained unaware of the event or its significance to their daily lives.
Across markets, bus stations, and communities in Mfantseman Municipality, conversations were more focused on the rising cost of living and unemployment than on government fiscal plans.
A visit to Nanaanom Market on by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) revealed that most traders had no idea the national budget was scheduled to be presented this week.
“I didn’t even know the budget was coming,” said Adwoa Mensah, a tomato seller. “Every year they say they are reading a budget, but prices keep going up. So, what’s the use?”
Her sentiment was echoed by a taxi driver, Mr Kofi Asare, who said government budgets had become “too technical” for the ordinary citizen to understand. “They should tell us in simple language what they are doing for us. We don’t see any change after the reading,” he added.
Analysts say this lack of public awareness and engagement highlighted a communication gap between policymakers and citizens.
Economist who pleaded anonymity noted that while the budget determined key national priorities such as taxes, wages, and social interventions, most citizens are left out of the conversation.
“The budget affects fuel prices, food costs, and even job creation. If people are unaware, it means they can’t hold leaders accountable,” she explained.
Civic groups have called for broader public education and community engagement before and after the budget reading to make the process more inclusive.
As the Finance Minister takes the floor in Parliament, the disconnect between the government’s fiscal plans and the daily realities of ordinary Ghanaians remains clear, a sign that economic communication must go beyond speeches and statistics to reach the very people the policies are meant to serve.
GNA
Edited by Alice Tettey/George-Ramsey Benamba