Ghana has seen rapid economic growth over the last two decades, but job creation has not kept pace, leaving many—especially the youth—unemployed or stuck in the informal sector.
Why it matters
Despite becoming a lower-middle-income country in 2011, Ghana continues to struggle with “jobless growth,” where economic expansion doesn’t translate into employment opportunities.
The 2023 Ghana National Human Development Report (GNHDR) outlines pathways for reversing this trend.
The big picture:
- Ghana’s economy tripled in size between 2007 and 2022, yet unemployment remains high.
- The informal sector accounts for 75% of the workforce, offering little job security.
- Women and youth face the greatest employment challenges, with unpaid labor still undervalued.
Driving the news
- The report, published by the UNDP, highlights the mismatch between economic policies and job creation.
- Future jobs will be shaped by digital transformation, automation, and “industries without smokestacks” like tech and the creative economy.
- Government initiatives like free secondary education and vocational training aim to boost employment but need stronger implementation.
What they’re saying
- “Work should not be viewed only in monetary terms—caregiving, volunteering, and informal jobs contribute significantly to the economy,” the report argues.
- “STEM/STEAM education and entrepreneurship are crucial for preparing the next generation of Ghanaian workers.”
What’s next
- Formalizing the informal sector through business registration and training could expand job opportunities.
- Investments in digital infrastructure, co-working spaces, and remote work could reshape employment trends.
- A long-term national development plan is needed to ensure policy consistency across administrations.
The bottom line
Ghana must rethink its approach to work—focusing not just on job creation but on sustainable, inclusive employment that benefits all sectors of society.
