Ghana’s Economy Watch: DVLA Rolls Out New Plates, Poultry Farmers Seek Clarity, and Gov’t Pays GH¢9.7bn to Bondholders

Ghana’s economy and financial sector continue to deliver key developments from sweeping reforms at the DVLA to farmers demanding answers on a long-awaited poultry project, and a huge GH¢9.7 billion payout to bondholders under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP). Here are the top stories making headlines:

DVLA Reforms: New Number Plates and Vehicle Tracking from January 2026

The Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is rolling out a major overhaul in Ghana’s vehicle registration system.

Starting January 1, 2026, all number plates will adopt a new format, with regional codes at the top and area codes at the end , phasing out the current system that includes the year of manufacture. For instance, a new plate will read GR 222 AD, with “AD” representing Adenta.

DVLA Chief Executive, Julius Neequaye Kotey, explained that the new Dealer’s Permit (DP) stickers will improve accountability and traceability from the ports into the country’s transport system.

“Once scanned, the DP sticker reveals who is driving the car, when it arrived, its destination, and expiry date,” Mr. Kotey said.

He further warned that individuals who fail to register their vehicles within two weeks of acquisition may face hefty costs for special plates.

This reform marks a big step towards curbing fraud, ensuring ownership transparency, and modernising Ghana’s transport regulation system.

Poultry Farmers Demand Update on Nkoko Nkitinkiti Project

Poultry farmers across Ghana are raising concerns over the delayed rollout of the Nkoko Nkitinkiti Project, a much-publicised government programme designed to support over 55,000 households, create jobs, and reduce the country’s annual poultry import bill — which currently exceeds $300 million.

Kwame Anim Somuah, President of the Greater Accra Poultry Farmers Association, expressed frustration over the lack of communication:

“It’s been touted for a long time, but from where we sit, I don’t know what is holding back the launch of the programme,” he said.

Farmers argue that without clarity on timelines, it becomes difficult to plan production effectively. For instance, poultry raised now may mature without guaranteed processing or market access.

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening agriculture, linking it to industry, and creating new opportunities for youth through the Nkoko Nkitinkiti and the upcoming AgriNext Programme.

Still, stakeholders stress that delays could weaken farmer confidence and derail expected benefits.

Government Disburses GH¢9.7bn to Bondholders Under DDEP

In the financial markets, the government has delivered a GH¢9.7 billion coupon payment to bondholders under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).

This brings the total payout for 2025 to GH¢19.4 billion, a move officials describe as a strong signal of the state’s determination to rebuild investor confidence and strengthen debt credibility.

To further assure stakeholders, government has also set up a Cedi Sinking Fund and a US Dollar Sinking Fund to cover future bond maturities in 2026, 2027, and 2028.

The Ministry of Finance said:

“This payment shows our unwavering commitment to meeting obligations on time. All future debts , including those under the DDEP, will be paid in full.”

While the DDEP sparked heated debate since its 2022 launch, analysts say this payout is a turning point for investor confidence, proving that despite turbulence, Ghana’s debt management strategy remains on course.

Investor’s Insight – CLYD Shares Surge 266.67% YTD

On the investment front, CLYD shares have soared by 266.67% year-to-date, reflecting rising investor optimism in Ghana’s equity market.

From regulatory reforms at the DVLA to lingering agricultural project delays and a massive financial sector payout, Ghana’s economy is undergoing pivotal changes that will shape confidence in the months ahead.

As the Cedi holds at ₵10.81 per USD, stakeholders continue to watch closely for signs of fiscal discipline, project delivery, and investment opportunities.