#2025budget: Mahama's gov't uncaps GETFund, NHIL, Road Fund

In a significant policy shift aimed at strengthening key social and infrastructure initiatives, the government has announced the full allocation of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), and Road Fund in the 2025 budget.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, during the presentation of the 2025 Budget Statement and economic policy in Parliament, revealed that the government has removed the cap on GETFund.

This move is expected to secure an additional GH¢4.1 billion in funding, ensuring sustainable financing for the Free SHS program and other critical education expenditures.

The uncapping of GETFund, according to Dr. Forson, will not only improve the quality of free secondary education but also provide dedicated funding for free tertiary education for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

“Mr. Speaker, H.E. President John Mahama has resolved the funding challenge by uncapping the GETFund. This makes available dedicated funds for the full financing of free secondary education and free tertiary education for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs),” he stated.

The allocation for the Free SHS program in 2025 is GH¢3.5 billion, with the uncapped GETFund ensuring sustainable financing moving forward.

Additionally, the government has guaranteed the full allocation of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) under the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Act, 2017 (Act 947).

This decision is expected to improve the financial stability of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), allowing for expanded healthcare coverage and better service delivery across the country. With NHIL now receiving its full allocation, stakeholders anticipate a significant boost in healthcare accessibility, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The government has committed to providing the Road Fund with its full allocation, ensuring that funds earmarked for road construction and maintenance are no longer redirected. This move will enable the rapid execution of road projects, improving the country's transport infrastructure and addressing critical road network challenges.

These policy measures underscore the government’s commitment to improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure development through sustainable financing.

The removal of the cap on GETFund, alongside the full allocation of NHIL and the Road Fund, marks a significant step in addressing funding constraints and ensuring that essential public services receive the resources they need to function effectively.