Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has issued a strong warning to businesses and service providers against the increasing trend of pricing in foreign currencies, particularly the US dollar.
Speaking at the launch of the Cedi @60 celebration on Tuesday, Dr. Forson reaffirmed that the Ghana cedi remains the only legal tender for transactions in the country. He urged the public to show patriotism by supporting efforts to protect and uphold the value of the local currency.
“As citizens, we have a role to play; we must maintain the sanctity of the cedi as a legal tender by preserving it with dignity and protecting it jealously,” he stressed. “We must all be vanguards and ensure that the cedi’s value is maintained.”
He cautioned that quoting prices in US dollars undermines the stability of the cedi and poses risks to the broader economy.
“The US dollar is not our currency; the cedi is our only currency,” Dr. Forson declared. “The continuous pricing of goods and services in the US dollar will only hurt us. Let’s stop it and let’s stop it now.”
He further urged Ghanaians to take pride in using the cedi, describing it as a symbol of national identity and economic independence.
“The cedi is the only currency we have—let’s protect it, let’s trade with it and let’s defend it with all vim within us. Let’s talk about the cedi with pride and not as a burden.”
Dr. Forson assured that government remains committed to measures that will sustain recent gains and ensure long-term currency stability.
“The government of Ghana remains committed, and we shall stay the course to ensure that the cedi remains stable and as seen, gains are maintained,” he added.
