Ghana Beyond Aid: A Bargaining Chip for Draconian Economic Policies in Ghana

Abstract

Abstract This article evaluates the austere economic policies implemented by the Akufo- Addo-Administration using the Ghana Beyond Aid vision as a guarantee. For a state that virtually depends on the benevolence of the external world for its economic growth and national development, the enactment of policies to wean its political economy from the generosity of industrialized nations and multinational institutions is not only politically expedient, but also socially gratifying. Nonetheless, instead of the government to concentrate on formulating pragmatic policies that form the niches of the Ghana Beyond Aid agenda with public support, it has rather taken a uniquely detested trajectory of dedicating little attention to the vision in pursuit of policies that have lost touch with the public, but which the vision is occasionally cited as the bargaining chip. This article examines these political nuances using the case study strategy. The paper argues that while it is prudent to implement policies towards the attainment of the Ghana Beyond Aid vision, the political leadership should be guided by public opinion and consensus building to reduce the degree of adversities posed by these policies. The study also makes a case for policy initiatives and strategies to make the beyond aid agenda feasible.