The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) is urging the government to ensure Ghana's strong macroeconomic performance translates into meaningful job creation and improved living standards for citizens.

Presenting ISSER's review of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget in Accra, the Director of the Institute, Professor Robert Darko Osei, said while Ghana has recorded encouraging gains in economic growth, fiscal consolidation and price stability, these achievements would mean little if they fail to improve the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.

"Economic growth, fiscal consolidation, price stability etc. should not be an end in themselves. How is the average Ghanaian's daily 'bread and butter' better because of these positives?"

Professor Osei said the country's next phase of economic policy should focus on creating jobs rather than simply improving macroeconomic indicators.

According to him, the expansion of Ghana's services sector, which continues to be the largest contributor to economic growth, must result in employment opportunities, particularly for young people.

"Focus on employment-led growth going forward. Expansion in the services sector should result in reduced unemployment, for example."

ISSER also cautioned that the continued restraint in public spending, although supporting fiscal consolidation, could undermine investments in critical infrastructure needed to sustain long-term growth.

"Continued expenditure restraint could limit investment in critical infrastructure. We need to keep an eye on that while consolidating our gains."

ISSER on Gold Exports Dependency

The Institute further warned that Ghana's increasing dependence on gold exports poses a significant risk to the economy, noting that any sharp decline in global gold prices could adversely affect export earnings and economic stability.

"Gold dominated export value makes exports susceptible to any significant price drops. Value addition will improve our economic complexity and offer buffers against price drops."

ISSER therefore called on policymakers to pursue growth strategies that create sustainable employment, diversify the economy and ensure the benefits of macroeconomic stability are broadly shared across the population.