Ghana Announces ‘No Fees Stress’ Policy and NIA Resumes Operations

Ghana’s macroeconomic landscape saw renewed momentum on June 30, 2025, as three major developments made headlines, continued cedi appreciation, the official rollout of the No Fees Stress tertiary education policy, and the full resumption of national ID services following the suspension of a staff strike.

Cedi Gains Sharply Against Major Currencies

As of June 30, 2025, the Ghana cedi recorded another week of solid gains, strengthening significantly against all three major trading currencies:

• Dollar to Cedi: ₵10.32 (↓ ~29.27% from ₵14.59 one year ago)

• Euro to Cedi: ₵12.07 (↓ ~22.78% from ₵15.63)

• Pound to Cedi: ₵14.16 (↓ ~23.25% from ₵18.45)

The sustained appreciation reflects investor confidence and continued foreign inflows, bolstered by upcoming financial aid from global development partners.

No Fees Stress Policy Launches July 4

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has announced that the government’s No Fees Stress policy will officially launch on Friday, July 4, 2025. The initiative, first introduced during the 2024 campaign, will waive academic user fees for all first-year students in public tertiary institutions.

According to data from the Students Loan Trust Fund, over 100,000 students have already completed online applications for the programme. The move is expected to significantly increase access to higher education while easing financial burdens on families.

NIA Staff Suspend Strike; National ID Services Resume

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has temporarily suspended the nationwide strike action by its staff under the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU). All ID registration centers across the country resumed full operations on June 30, 2025.

This follows extensive stakeholder engagement involving the National Labour Commission, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, and the Ministry of Finance. The suspension brings an end to days of halted services and is expected to restore momentum in digital identity access and related services.

World Bank Approves $360M to Support Ghana’s Recovery

In a major fiscal boost, the World Bank has approved a $360 million financing package to aid Ghana’s economic rebound. The funds will support ongoing structural reforms, macroeconomic stability, and inclusive growth efforts. This development is expected to bolster investor sentiment and reserve buffers, especially amid global uncertainties.

Investor’s Insight – Ghana Stock Exchange: Weekly Gainers and Losers

Markets remained active on the Ghana Stock Exchange, with notable performances in the financial and energy sectors:

Top Gainers (June 30, 2025):

• TOTAL: +10.00%

• GCB: +7.18%

• EGH: +4.19%

Top Losers:

• GLD: -1.39%

• CAL: -1.20%

These trends point to sustained bullish sentiment, particularly in stocks tied to oil distribution and commercial banking.

With a stronger cedi, major social policy launches, and renewed institutional functionality, Ghana closes June on a high note. All eyes are now on the No Fees Stress rollout and the utilization of the World Bank package to accelerate growth.

Stay tuned to the Cedi Board® for real-time updates on Ghana’s financial pulse. From prices and policy to investment tips that help you make sense of the numbers.