Government has announced a major intervention aimed at reducing the burden of rising fuel prices on Ghanaians, directing key ministers to remove certain taxes and margins on petroleum products.
The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, revealed that the decision was taken during an emergency Cabinet meeting held on April 9. According to him, the Ministers for Finance and Energy have been tasked to ensure the directive takes effect from the next pricing window.
“The Finance and Energy Ministers have been tasked to remove taxes and margins on petroleum prices in the next pricing window,” he stated.
He explained that the measure is expected to bring immediate relief at the pumps, although it will initially be implemented for a limited period.
“The reduction or removal of some taxes and margins… should lead to a reduction in fuel prices effective the next pricing window. This is supposed to last for an initial period of four weeks,” he noted, adding that the policy will be reviewed afterward to determine the next steps.
The intervention comes in response to persistent increases in fuel prices, largely driven by global tensions, particularly the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict. Despite recent economic gains, government says the impact on fuel costs remains significant.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the move is part of broader efforts to cushion citizens, especially commuters, from the rising cost of transportation.
As part of these efforts, Cabinet has also directed the Transport Minister to fast-track the deployment of newly imported Metro Mass buses to ease pressure on urban transport systems.
“You recall that over the weekend, I announced the arrival of 100 Metro Mass buses… the Transport Minister has been instructed… to ensure expedited deployment of these buses in high traffic corridors,” he said.
He added that the buses are expected to offer more affordable fares compared to private operators.
“This is to ensure that Ghanaians are cushioned, especially when we reach peak periods at the rush hour,” he explained.
In addition, the President used the meeting to reinforce discipline within government, reminding all appointees to strictly comply with the ban on fuel allowances.
“This applies to all ministers and senior government officials,” the spokesperson stressed.
The measures signal government’s attempt to balance economic pressures with immediate relief for citizens, as authorities continue to monitor global developments impacting fuel prices.
