Kuami Eugene Jokes: 'Mr. President, Cool Down—My Dollar Savings Are Shrinking

Ghanaian highlife artist Kuami Eugene has sparked a wave of conversation with a humorous take on the recent surge of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar. The “Open Gate” singer shared a light-hearted but revealing post on social media, appealing to former President John Dramani Mahama to ease the rapid appreciation of the cedi, noting that it’s impacting his foreign currency savings.

In a post that quickly went viral, Kuami Eugene wrote: “We beg Pres. John Mahama for slow down small, my dollar reserves all dey go waste.” The comment, though delivered in jest, pointed to a real concern shared by individuals with savings in dollars. With the local currency gaining strength, dollar reserves are losing value when converted into cedis—a situation that creates mixed feelings for those balancing international earnings with local expenses.

The artist clarified that his concerns were not purely negative. “I’m happy and sad at the same time,” he added. His reaction highlights a common paradox: while a stronger cedi helps curb inflation, reduce import costs, and stabilise the economy, it can negatively affect those who hold or earn in foreign currency.

The ongoing appreciation of the cedi has been a major point of discussion in both economic and social circles. Over the past several months, the currency has strengthened significantly, moving from an exchange rate of approximately GH¢17 to the dollar to around GH¢11 as of late May 2025. This impressive rebound has attracted commentary not only from financial analysts and politicians but also from celebrities and everyday citizens alike.

Joining the conversation, award-winning Ghanaian actor Van Vicker offered his praise to President Mahama for the cedi’s remarkable comeback. In a Facebook post on May 28, 2025, Van Vicker congratulated the former president and urged Ghanaians to give credit where it is due.

“Mr. President, I must congratulate you on the strengthening of the Ghana cedis on the world market. Ayekoo,” he wrote. The actor acknowledged that while various economic factors may have contributed to the positive trend, what matters most is the outcome Ghanaians are now witnessing. “The true reason could be a consolidation of two or more—whatever—economic theories. But the fact remains that the Ghana cedi is approximately GH¢11 to $1 TODAY. It was about GH¢17 to $1 just a few months ago.”

Van Vicker’s comments touched on an important point regarding public perception. He warned against what he described as a self-serving or “narcissistic” reaction from some individuals, especially those living abroad who benefit more when the cedi is weaker. “This is not a political statement. It is an acknowledgement of a good job done so far. Call a spade a spade. Give credit to whom credit is due,” he stated firmly.

Looking ahead, Van Vicker expressed confidence that the current exchange rate stability is sustainable, provided sound economic policies remain in place. He even referenced the strong performance of the cedi during the mid-2000s, saying, “Your Excellency JM, if you can take us back to 2007, heerrrh like e go be ‘kerker’.”

Together, these celebrity reactions have helped bring greater public attention to a key national issue, blending humour, admiration, and economic insight. While Kuami Eugene’s playful lament over his dwindling dollar savings added levity, Van Vicker’s remarks offered serious praise and encouragement for continued progress. Both voices, in their own ways, contribute to a broader conversation on economic stewardship, national pride, and the importance of giving credit where it’s due.