Ghana’s unemployment rate declined to 12.8 percent during the first three quarters of 2025, down from 13.7 percent recorded over the same period in 2024, according to figures released by the Ministry of Finance as part of the 2026 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review.
The latest data, presented in an infographic accompanying the fiscal review, points to improvements in the country’s labour market and poverty reduction efforts, with government attributing the progress to ongoing economic recovery measures and social intervention programmes.
According to the Ministry, the unemployment rate fell by 0.9 percentage points between the first three quarters of 2024 and the corresponding period in 2025, indicating that more Ghanaians secured employment over the one-year period.
The report also highlighted significant gains in the fight against multidimensional poverty, which measures deprivation across several indicators, including health, education and living standards.
Government said multidimensional poverty declined from 24.9 percent in the third quarter of 2024 to 21.9 percent in the third quarter of 2025, representing a three percentage-point reduction within a year.
The Ministry further disclosed that the decline translated into approximately 950,000 Ghanaians moving out of multidimensional poverty during the period.
According to the fiscal review, the figures reflect sustained improvements in household welfare and access to essential services, while underscoring the impact of government policies aimed at promoting inclusive economic growth.
The unemployment and poverty statistics form part of broader economic indicators contained in the 2026 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review, which outlines the government’s assessment of the economy’s performance and progress made under its fiscal and development agenda.
The latest figures come as government continues to implement reforms intended to stabilise the economy, create jobs, strengthen social protection systems and improve living conditions across the country.
The Ministry of Finance noted that the reduction in unemployment and multidimensional poverty demonstrates positive momentum in Ghana’s economic recovery, while reaffirming government’s commitment to sustaining policies that support job creation, reduce poverty and improve the overall well-being of citizens.
The 2026 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review is expected to provide a comprehensive update on the country’s fiscal performance, macroeconomic outlook and key socio-economic indicators, offering a roadmap for maintaining economic stability and accelerating inclusive growth.
CREDIT: MAVIS FANTEVI