The World Bank has maintained its economic growth forecast for Ghana at 4.8% for 2026. This projection is based on stronger economic activity, falling inflation, and progress in the country’s debt restructuring. The Bank’s forecast is detailed in its October 2026 Africa Economic Update: Building AI-Readiness report. Ghana’s economy is expected to grow by 4.9% in 2027 and 5.0% in 2028.

Ghana’s economic recovery remains strong, supported by domestic demand and the growing digital services sector. The economy recorded 6.0% growth in the second quarter of 2026. This growth was driven by a significant increase in investment, which rose by 53%, and a rise in domestic demand by 11.2%. These factors contributed to the overall positive economic performance during the quarter.

The services sector was the main contributor to Ghana’s economic growth, expanding by 8% in the second quarter of 2026. Within the services sector, information and communications technology recorded an impressive growth of 30.9%. This indicates a robust performance by the technology sector, which is likely driving innovation and contributing to economic diversification.

The industrial sector also showed improvement, growing by 4.3% in the second quarter of 2026. This growth was partly due to increased oil and gas production. However, agricultural growth slowed to 3.9%, mainly because of a decline in fishing activity. This slowdown in agriculture highlights the need for strategies to boost the sector.

The World Bank expects inflation in Ghana to continue falling. Inflation rates decreased from 14.2% in 2025 to a projected 8% in 2026. The Bank forecasts that inflation will remain around this level through 2028. This projection suggests that Ghana’s monetary policy measures are likely effective in curbing inflationary pressures.

Ghana’s debt position has also improved significantly. Public debt fell from 70.1% of GDP in 2024 to 48.8% in 2025. Although it is estimated to rise slightly to 52.6% in 2026, the overall trend indicates a positive trajectory. The completion of Ghana’s debt restructuring and continued fiscal consolidation under the IMF programme have helped improve investor confidence.

The World Bank believes that artificial intelligence could play a crucial role in reducing poverty in Ghana if access to the technology is expanded to poorer and underserved communities. Wider access to digital technology and AI-driven opportunities could make Ghana’s economic growth more inclusive. This perspective underscores the importance of leveraging technology for sustainable and equitable development.

Key points

  • The World Bank maintains Ghana's 2026 growth forecast at 4.8%.
  • Ghana's economy grew by 6.0% in the second quarter of 2026.
  • Inflation is expected to remain around 8% through 2028.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.