Ghana's Economy
The Cedi and Inflation
Why Ghana's currency, the cedi, has repeatedly lost value, the 2007 redenomination, and the effects of currency weakness on prices and savings.
Ghana’s currency is the cedi.
Redenomination
In 2007, Ghana removed four zeros, so 10,000 old cedis became 1 new cedi.
Depreciation
The cedi has lost value repeatedly, especially in 2014-15 and 2022.
Causes
- Deficits and borrowing.
- Import dependence.
- Falling commodity prices.
Effects
- Imported goods get pricier.
- Savers lose value; people turn to dollars.
Central bank
The Bank of Ghana raised rates sharply to fight inflation.
The price tag
A shop in Accra raises prices of imported rice weekly as the cedi falls.
Thinking removing zeros fixes inflation
It only simplifies prices.
Key takeaways
- Ghana redenominated in 2007.
- The cedi has repeatedly weakened.
- Deficits and imports drive this.
- People turn to dollars.
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