As Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson stepped out on Budget Day, the cameras weren’t just focused on him—the nation’s eyes were drawn to the rich, handcrafted leather briefcase he carried. This was no ordinary bag. It was The Horseman Minimalist Handmade Leather Briefcase, a product of Ghanaian excellence, designed by celebrated shoemaker Tonyi Senaya’s Horseman.
For the first time in Ghana’s history, the Budget was symbolically carried in a Made-in-Ghana bag—an embodiment of President John Mahama’s “Buy Ghana, Wear Ghana” agenda. Crafted from premium authentic leather, this briefcase wasn’t just about functionality; it was about telling a story of resilience, self-reliance, and national pride.
A Tradition Reimagined
Across the world, Budget Bags hold deep symbolic meaning. In the United Kingdom, for instance, the Chancellor of the Exchequer traditionally carries the red Budget Box, a scarlet leather-covered wooden case that dates to the 1860s. Year after year, the UK’s finance ministers have stood on the steps of 11 Downing Street, proudly hoisting their budget statement in that iconic box.
The very word Budget originates from the old French “bougette,” meaning little bag. Historically, finance ministers have used such a case to transport their budget statements, a tradition that has evolved but remains significant.
Ghana’s introduction of its own locally crafted Budget Bag marks a new chapter in the country’s economic storytelling. No longer must Ghana’s leaders rely on foreign symbols—instead, they embrace one of their own, a bold statement of belief in the nation’s artisans, industries, and economic potential.
A Bag That Holds More Than a Budget
Beyond carrying the official documents of Ghana’s fiscal roadmap, this bag represents a vision. A vision where Ghanaian craftsmanship stands on the world stage. A vision where every leather product, every textile, every piece of local ingenuity is valued, supported, and celebrated.
As Dr. Forson stepped forward with the Horseman briefcase in hand, it wasn’t just about delivering the numbers—it was about making a promise: Ghana will invest in itself. Ghana will believe in itself. Ghana will prosper.