The Minister of Information, John Tia Akologu, on Tuesday announced that Cabinet had approved credit agreements between government and some financial institutions for onward submission to Parliament for ratification.
They were agreements between government and The Trust Bank Ghana to finance supply of electrical cables and conductors for the
implementation of Self-Help Electrification Programme, and Social Security and National Insurance Trust for the construction of a
34-court room complex for the Judicial Service.
Others were purchase of an Embracer 190 Aircraft, Related Integrated Logistic support package and the construction of a hanger;
agreement with Fidelity Bank Ghana to finance the acquisition of Ex-German Naval Boats.
In addition, is a $70 million agreement with the International Development Association to finance skills and technology development and a further $50 million to finance the Second Land Administration Project.
Mr Akologu was addressing a press conference to highlight government’s business at Cabinet between April 20 and May 13, in Accra.
The monthly briefing is being instituted by the Ministry to keep the public abreast of government decisions and approval by Cabinet.
The decisions would reflect major discussions on the economy, agriculture, infrastructure as well as the social sector and how government was tackling issues towards the achievement of the “Better Ghana Agenda”.
Mr Akologu said other agreements approved included a loan with Industrial and Commercial Bank of China of $990 million for the
construction of Accra-Tema, Accra-Nsawam and Accra James Town Railway lines on Standard Gauge.
Others are a loan facility of $103 million from Citi Bank of South Africa to finance the National Electrification Scheme in Upper
East Region.
Cabinet has also approved ratification of the statute for the International Renewal Energy Agency, Cinematograph Act 1961 (Act 76),
restructuring of the debt, technical, operational and financial diagnostic of Tema Oil Refinery, proposal for a credit facility of $175 million from the World Bank to finance the Local Government Capacity Support Project.
Mr Akologu said government would review the Ghana Police Service regulation 2011 to bring the personnel in line with modern day
policing to enhance performance.
“As a way and in line with government’s decision for Ghanaians to patronise Made-in-Ghana goods, Cabinet has decided that State
institutions should adopt local cuisine/gastronomy at organised State functions.
“A directive to this effect has already been issued to all heads of government departments and agencies for compliance. Cabinet has also given approval to the Marine Pollution Bill and would soon be laid before Parliament,” he added.
Mr Akologu expressed the hope that information from government to the people would be sustained on regular basis not only to enhance
good governance but also to reduce speculations in the media with regard to government activities and programmes.
“It is my hope that these interactions will bear fruits as well as strengthen the cordial relationship between the Ministry, media and
the public. I call on Ghanaians to show interest in those issues before Parliament,” he added.