Accra: The Director of Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), Professor Robert Darko Osei, has charged the government to ensure that Ghana's macroeconomic performance translates into better living standards and job creation for citizens. During his presentation of ISSER's review of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget in Accra on Sunday, August 2, 2026, he emphasized that while Ghana records significant economic gains, improved price stability, and fiscal consolidation, these improvements would have less impact if they fail to enhance the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.
According to Ghana Web, Professor Osei highlighted the importance of focusing on creating jobs rather than merely improving macroeconomic indicators. He stressed that the expansion of Ghana's services sector must lead to employment opportunities, especially for young people. He stated, "Focus on employment-led growth going forward. Expansion in the services sector should result in reduced unemployment, for example."
Professor Osei also pointed out the risks associated with the government's heavy reliance on gold exports, noting that any decline in the global gold market could significantly affect export earnings. "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," he explained.
Furthermore, he cautioned that continued restraint in public spending, while supporting fiscal consolidation, could undermine investments in critical infrastructure necessary for sustaining long-term growth. "Continued expenditure restraint could limit investment in critical infrastructure. We need to keep an eye on that while consolidating our gains," he remarked.
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.