Accra: Civil society leaders have commended Dr Leandro Medina, the outgoing International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Resident Representative to Ghana, for fostering inclusive dialogue under the ongoing Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme. The tribute was paid at a farewell lunch organised by the Economic Governance Platform (EGP) in Accra.

According to Ghana News Agency, speakers praised Dr Medina's commitment to strengthening engagement between the IMF and Ghana's civil society. The ECF programme was approved in May 2023. Professor Godfred A. Bokpin, Professor of Economics and Finance at the University of Ghana, described Dr Medina as open to divergent views. He highlighted that despite disagreements with the IMF, Dr Medina ensured continuous engagement, which enriched their understanding and practice.

Mrs. Beauty Emefa Narteh, Executive Secretary of the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), commended Dr Medina's inclusive approach, noting that he built on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Mr. Albert Touna Mama. She emphasized that the momentum of civil society engagement with the IMF was not only maintained but also strengthened, evident from the early engagement with the IMF Managing Director during her visit to Ghana last year.

Mr. Abdulkarim Mohammed, EGP Coordinator, and Mr. Benjamin Boakye, Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), also acknowledged Dr Medina's efforts to facilitate civil society dialogue ahead of each review mission. They appreciated his commitment to incorporating diverse perspectives in IMF-related discussions, which enhanced their contributions to policy dialogues.

In his response, Dr Medina expressed gratitude for the partnership with Ghana's civil society. He emphasized that effective collaboration does not necessitate agreement on every issue and highlighted the common ground found in advancing Ghana's economic progress. He also indicated his openness to continuing these engagements in the future.

The event was attended by prominent figures from civil society and academia, including Dr Kojo Asante of CDD-Ghana, Mrs. Mary Awelana Addah of Transparency International Ghana, and Dr Steve Manteaw, Chairman of the Civil Society Platform on Oil and Gas (CSPOG).