Bag of cement is selling for GH¢82 – DCE claims
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Kasena-Nankana West District, Stephen A-eke Akurugo, has praised the John Mahama-led government for what he described as “prudent management of the Ghanaian economy,” which, according to him, is already producing positive results in the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.
In an interview on Breakfast Today on Wednesday, Mr. Akurugo said the strengthening of the Ghana cedi, along with the reduction in fuel prices, has helped bring down the cost of key commodities, especially building materials like cement, which are essential for development and housing in rural areas.
“Fuel price is down. I think a gallon is now going for 50 Ghana cedis. It used to go for even 100 or something. Cement prices have started dropping. From GH¢120 to GH¢150, it has now gone to GH¢82,” he said.
He shared a personal example, revealing that his own brother, a cement dealer at the Sirigu market, confirmed the drop in price.
“My brother is selling cement at Sirigu market. He told me. And if you go there, you will see it written clearly on his board: GH¢82 per bag,” he added.
Cedi Makes Strong Comeback
For nearly three years, the Ghana cedi was on a serious decline, trading poorly against major international currencies like the US dollar and British pound. This led to sharp increases in the prices of imported goods and fuel, worsening the cost of living for many Ghanaians.
However, according to the Bank of Ghana, the cedi has appreciated by 24.1% against the US dollar, a development economists say could result in a broader reduction in prices if sustained.
This new development has brought some relief to consumers, with prices of fuel and other imported items seeing slight reductions in recent weeks.
Fuel Prices Fall, Transport Fares Adjust
Fuel is one of the biggest drivers of inflation in Ghana. When fuel prices go up, the cost of transportation, food, goods, and services also goes up. Now, with fuel prices dropping, Ghanaians are calling for commensurate reductions in prices across all sectors.
Some transport unions have responded, announcing a 15% reduction in fares, while others have only reduced by 10%, citing operational challenges and unstable pricing systems.
But the general public is watching closely, demanding that traders and service providers also adjust their prices downwards.
Cement Price Drop – True or False?
Last week, there were widespread reports that cement prices had dropped significantly, from over GH¢120 to as low as GH¢80 per bag. While some traders in areas like Sirigu appear to be confirming these new prices, cement retailers in other parts of the country have dismissed the claims as false or premature.
Some retailers argue that factory prices have not changed much and that the drop may be limited to specific locations or influenced by independent pricing strategies at the local level.
Nonetheless, Mr. Akurugo insists that in his district, the price drop is real and visible to everyone, pointing to it as proof that Mahama’s economic policies are beginning to make an impact.
DCE Credits Mahama’s Sound Economic Policies
Mr. Akurugo, who is also a staunch supporter of the NDC, was quick to connect the improving economic outlook to the governing party’s strategies under President Mahama.
He said the administration has put in place the right fiscal measures, forex interventions, and trade policies to stabilize the economy, giving room for businesses and households to breathe.
“This is not magic. This is good governance. We have come to fix the mess and bring relief to our people. If cement can drop from GH¢150 to GH¢82, then we are doing something right,” he said.
He also urged Ghanaians to remain hopeful and patient, assuring them that things would continue to improve as the policies take full effect.
Reality Check: Sustainability of Price Reductions
While the recent gains in the value of the cedi and falling fuel prices are encouraging, economic analysts warn that these improvements must be sustained over time before the benefits can be felt fully across the country.
They caution that external factors such as international oil prices, global market volatility, and domestic policy consistency will all play a role in whether prices continue to fall or not.
Nonetheless, the current relief is a welcome sign for many Ghanaians, especially in rural communities, where the cost of construction and transport has long been a burden.
Call for Traders to Pass Benefits to Consumers
Mr. Akurugo is calling on traders, businesses, and transport operators to follow the trend and pass on the benefits of the economic gains to the public.
“If the cedi is doing well and fuel prices are dropping, then we must all be fair. Reduce your prices and help ordinary Ghanaians. Let’s all support this recovery,” he appealed.
He said he would engage market leaders in his district to ensure that the reduction in fuel and cement prices is not only announced but also implemented in real terms to benefit low-income and struggling families.
Moving Forward: A Renewed Sense of Hope
In conclusion, Mr. Akurugo stated that the early signs of economic recovery are a strong indication that the Mahama government is on the right path. He believes the NDC’s economic team is capable of steering the country back to full stability and progress.
“We have a solid plan. This is just the beginning. Ghana will rise again and our people will enjoy the fruits of good leadership,” he said.
He urged citizens to support the government, avoid panic buying or price speculation, and hold all players accountable, especially those who refuse to reflect national economic progress in their pricing.
“Let’s be fair to each other. When things were hard, we adjusted prices. Now that things are improving, let’s also reduce prices. That’s the only way we can grow together as a nation,” he concluded.