Ghana Business News

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GOIL CEO Edward Bawa Credits Institutional Strength for Smooth Leadership Transition Amidst Star Oil Rivalry
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GOIL CEO Edward Bawa Credits Institutional Strength for Smooth Leadership Transition Amidst Star Oil Rivalry

Edward Bawa, the Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of GOIL PLC, has expressed significant confidence in the company's internal resilience following his first year in office. Reflecting on his transition into the oil marketing sector, Bawa revealed that the process was unexpectedly smooth despite his initial lack of direct experience in the industry. He attributed this successful integration to a robust onboarding process and a supportive work environment, which allowed him to navigate the complexities of leading one of Ghana’s most prominent indigenous energy companies. Central to GOIL’s operational success, according to Bawa, is a three-pronged foundation consisting of people, structures, and strong internal systems. While acknowledging the dedication of the staff and management team, he emphasized that the company’s strength should not be attributed to individuals alone. Instead, he argued that clear policies and established organizational structures are vital for providing the clarity and consistency needed to achieve corporate goals. This systemic approach ensures that the company remains effective regardless of personnel changes at various levels of leadership. The GOIL chief also addressed the intensifying competition in Ghana’s fuel market, specifically the ongoing price war with Star Oil. Despite the aggressive strategies employed by both companies to secure market share, Bawa highlighted the professional maturity that exists between industry leaders. He noted that while the rivalry is strictly business-oriented, he maintains a cordial relationship with Star Oil’s CEO, Philip Kwame Tieku. Bawa shared that although they have never met in person, they have exchanged friendly gestures, including birthday wishes on social media, which underscores a culture of mutual respect amidst fierce market competition. As GOIL continues to navigate the evolving energy landscape, the emphasis on institutional stability and professional conduct remains a priority. Bawa’s reflections suggest that the combination of established corporate governance and healthy competition is essential for the growth of the oil marketing sector. By prioritizing structural integrity and maintaining professional ties within the industry, GOIL aims to sustain its market leadership while fostering an environment where competitive business practices and personal respect can coexist.

Ghana’s 2026 Real Estate Outlook: Navigating Market Growth, New Tax Regimes, and Investment Opportunities
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Ghana’s 2026 Real Estate Outlook: Navigating Market Growth, New Tax Regimes, and Investment Opportunities

Ghana's economy showed resilience in the first quarter of 2026 with a 6.4% GDP growth, fueling a cautiously optimistic real estate market. This momentum was visible at the second JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair at Marina Mall, where prospective homeowners sought solutions amid rising property values and significant legislative changes. While nominal appreciation for Accra properties hovers between 5% and 8%, specific expansion zones like Oyarifa are seeing surges of up to 18%, signaling a shift in where value is being created. Investors are currently seeing total annual returns ranging from 12% to 18%, indicating strong rental income opportunities despite a cautious economic backdrop characterized by rising inflation. However, the 2026 landscape presents new hurdles for buyers. The implementation of the VAT Act 2025 has seen rates for registered developers jump from a flat 6% to approximately 20%, significantly impacting the final price of new builds. Combined with stamp duty ranging from 0.25% to 1% and legal fees of 2% to 6%, the sticker price of property is rarely the full story. Furthermore, the Land Act 2020 continues to define ownership, restricting non-citizens to 50-year leaseholds while reserving freehold interests primarily for citizens. Experts at the Habitat Fair, including representatives from Republic Bank, emphasized that navigating these legal and tax complexities requires professional guidance and valid GRA Tax Identification Numbers for all transactions. For those looking beyond traditional residential ownership, the aQuaaba resort in Akosombo offers a managed investment model. Starting at $100,500, these units provide a projected 8% to 10% annual return through a revenue-sharing pool, catering to the growing demand for premium leisure near the capital. Beyond individual investments, the broader economy is set for a boost from infrastructure; Dr. Theo Acheampong, Technical Adviser at the Ministry of Finance, recently highlighted that the Accra-Kumasi Expressway could generate up to 70,000 job-years, far exceeding initial conservative government estimates of 30,000 jobs. This project is expected to create significant employment beyond direct construction roles. As the market matures, the diversity of offerings—from electric mobility solutions and renewable energy featured at the Habitat Fair to luxury hospitality investments—reflects a broadening economic base. While inflation remains a concern for investors, the high rental yields suggest that real estate remains a robust hedge. For both the diaspora and local buyers, the key to success in 2026 lies in balancing the pursuit of high-growth locations with a rigorous understanding of the new fiscal and legal frameworks governing Ghanaian land. Proper documentation and engagement with licensed professionals remain the most critical steps for securing property interests in this evolving market.

GHS 153.9m for Visit Ghana: Tourism Masterstroke or National Vanity Project?
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Ghanaian Government Intervenes at Tema Port to Curb Cement Price Hikes Amidst Growing International Investment Interest

The Ghanaian government has launched an urgent intervention at Tema Port to address a critical clinker backlog that threatens to drive up national cement prices. Trade and Industry Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare and Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe have coordinated with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) to temporarily allocate an additional berth specifically for clinker imports. This move aims to reduce mounting demurrage costs—reported by the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers to be as high as GH"12 per bag—which manufacturers had begun passing on to consumers. To further streamline the process, the Ghana Revenue Authority has introduced expedited duty payment measures, with Director of Tema Port Tebon Zumah expressing confidence that these steps will stabilize production costs and market prices. Beyond immediate port operations, the government is intensifying its focus on long-term infrastructure and trade strategy. Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe, speaking at a recent sector review conference, emphasized the necessity of an integrated transport system spanning road, rail, aviation, and maritime networks. He noted that such a system is vital to support President John Mahama’s 24-hour economy agenda and sustainable economic transformation. This internal development aligns with Ghana’s strategic positioning as the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. High Commissioner to the UK, Sabah Zita Benson, recently highlighted that this status reinforces Ghana’s role as the premier gateway to Africa, urging deeper collaboration between the private sector and traditional institutions to unlock investment in regional hubs like Kumasi. Ghana’s economic landscape is also drawing significant international attention and diplomatic expansion. Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), is scheduled to visit Ghana from September 15-17, 2026, to discuss mobilizing private investment in agribusiness, renewable energy, and education. Simultaneously, the government has confirmed plans to reopen its diplomatic mission in Mexico to enhance trade and cultural ties. However, the nation’s marketing strategies have faced scrutiny, particularly a reported "10 million investment to feature 'Visit Ghana' on the shirts of Sunderland AFC. While proponents view this as a visionary tourism masterstroke similar to Rwanda’s marketing success, critics have called for greater transparency and measurable outcomes to justify the expenditure during tight fiscal periods. While Ghana seeks to attract global capital, the regional business environment remains complex, as evidenced by Uber’s recent exit from the Nigerian and Ugandan markets due to rising operational challenges. For individual Ghanaians looking toward international labor markets, specifically in the United Kingdom, experts are advising strict verification of employer sponsorship licenses. Potential applicants are urged to ensure their employers are authorized under the UK’s Skilled Worker route before accepting offers. These domestic and international developments underscore a pivotal moment for Ghana as it balances immediate industrial pressures with an ambitious long-term agenda for trade leadership and private-sector growth.

IMF Flags GH¢18.6bn in Financial Irregularities Across ECG, COCOBOD, and Other State-Owned Enterprises
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IMF Flags GH¢18.6bn in Financial Irregularities Across ECG, COCOBOD, and Other State-Owned Enterprises

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) Technical Assistance Report has uncovered significant financial management irregularities totaling GH¢18.6 billion within Ghana’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The report, titled “Advancing SOE Fiscal Risks Management, Financial Oversight, Governance, and Investment Implementation,” warns that persistent financial weaknesses and breaches of public financial management rules are heightening fiscal risks for the government. These findings come at a time when the performance of state-controlled entities continues to lag behind the private sector, with 19 out of 53 monitored SOEs reporting net losses despite being expected to generate dividends for the state. The GH¢18.6 billion in irregularities is primarily driven by outstanding debtors and loans, which account for GH¢12.54 billion of the total. The IMF report also identified GH¢4.58 billion in cash irregularities, including unsupported payments and revenue discrepancies, as well as GH¢871.82 million in contract-related issues. Other significant lapses include procurement irregularities of GH¢335.27 million and payroll discrepancies amounting to GH¢191.6 million. These financial vulnerabilities are further compounded by tax and stores irregularities, which suggest systemic oversight failures across several key sectors of the economy. Specific entities, notably the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), were singled out for major procurement and governance breaches. The IMF highlighted that the ECG spent approximately US$145 million on electricity meters without complying with the Public Procurement Act and expressed concern over unsolicited "take-or-pay" Power Purchase Agreements that strain public finances. Similarly, an audit of COCOBOD revealed that a staggering 87% of contracts for its cocoa roads investment programme were awarded without competitive tendering, raising serious red flags regarding project management and financial transparency. In response to these challenges, there is a growing call for SOEs to transition toward greater financial independence. Sammy Gyamfi, CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, has emphasized that state enterprises must commit to reducing their reliance on government funding and enhance their own fundraising capabilities. This sentiment is echoed by Eric Bonsu Agyabeng of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), who noted that while 34 SOEs did report a profit after tax, the overall sector still struggles to match the efficiency of privately controlled entities. The IMF and industry leaders recommend enhanced oversight and closer coordination between the Ministry of Finance and SIGA to mitigate the substantial fiscal exposure created by these ongoing financial irregularities.

Nana Prah Agyensaim VI (3rd from right), Board Chairman of PMGL and Paramount Chief of Owirenkyiman Traditional Area, presenting the cheque to Nana Kwadwo Appiah, the Chief of Ayanfuri
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President Mahama Anchors Ghana’s Economic Strategy on Mineral Value Addition and Local Content Reforms

President John Dramani Mahama has lauded the Ghana Gold Board for achieving a significant financial turnaround, recording a net profit of GH"896.5 million for the 2026 financial period. Speaking at the Governing Boards and CEOs Conference, the President highlighted this performance—a substantial increase from the GH"178.5 million recorded in 2024—as a testament to the nation's efforts to stabilize the economy through more active management of gold trade and foreign exchange. The Gold Board is currently projected to generate approximately $1.40 billion in foreign exchange by late 2026, aimed at bolstering the Bank of Ghana’s reserves and supporting critical infrastructure projects. This domestic success aligns with Ghana’s aggressive international push for mineral value addition. At the China Mining Conference in Tianjin, Ghana’s Ambassador to China, Kojo Bonsu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to local beneficiation, particularly the refinement of bauxite into alumina. Ambassador Bonsu emphasized that Ghana is shifting away from the export of raw materials to domestic processing to create jobs and enhance technical capacity. Supporting this transition, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah noted that while the sector faces challenges like illegal mining and gaps in geological data, regulatory reforms are being prioritized to transform mining into a cornerstone of national development. To safeguard the workforce during this transition, the Minerals Commission of Ghana is currently drafting minimum wage and tender benchmarks for mining contractors. This initiative follows a January 2025 directive mandating that surface mining operations be outsourced exclusively to Ghanaian-owned firms, with a December 31, 2026, deadline for underground mines to establish joint ventures with at least 50% local ownership. Ben Birch-Mensah, Director of Local Content at the Commission, stated that these benchmarks are essential to prevent aggressive underbidding, which often results in wage cuts and compromised safety standards. While the Ghana Chamber of Mines supports the move to curb unhealthy competition, it has raised concerns regarding the mandatory nature of contract mining. In the energy sector, the government is simultaneously expanding its offshore capabilities. Energy Minister Dr. John Jinapor recently signed two Memoranda of Understanding with Eni Ghana and Vitol Upstream Tano Limited to finalize petroleum agreements for offshore blocks GH WB 3 and GH WB 8. These blocks, covering 2,100 square kilometers in the Tano Basin, align with an infrastructure-led exploration strategy intended to maximize existing offshore facilities. Furthermore, Ghana is positioning itself to capitalize on the global green energy transition by developing its lithium and bauxite reserves, with the Ewoyaa Lithium Project expected to produce 365,000 tonnes annually to meet surging global demand for renewable energy components. As these industrial policies take shape, corporate social responsibility remains a key focus for maintaining community trust. Perseus Mining (Ghana) Limited recently demonstrated this by donating GH"6.86 million to the Ayanfuri community for local development projects. Moving forward, Ghana's economic resilience will depend on the successful implementation of these value-addition policies and the Gold Board's ability to maintain transparent governance. By integrating local content requirements with strategic international partnerships, the Mahama administration aims to ensure that the nation’s vast natural resource wealth translates into sustainable industrial growth and long-term financial stability.

Consolidated Bank Ghana and Fintech Innovators Lead New Wave of Financial Inclusion and Digital Transformation
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Consolidated Bank Ghana and Fintech Innovators Lead New Wave of Financial Inclusion and Digital Transformation

Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG) is spearheading a transformative shift in the financial sector by launching the PWD Inclusion Loan Initiative, a program designed to transition persons with disabilities (PWDs) from charity recipients to active economic partners. Announced by Managing Director Dr. Naomi Wolali Kwetey and Deputy Managing Director Sheila Azuntaba, the initiative focuses on providing sustainable access to credit, financial literacy, and tailored business guidance. Already onboarding 119 participants, the program moves away from traditional grants toward a revolving line of credit with lower-than-average interest rates. This national expansion aims to empower PWD-owned enterprises across all CBG branches, ensuring that financial services are adapted to the unique needs of marginalized entrepreneurs in partnership with organizations like the Korklu Foundation. Alongside traditional banking shifts, Ghana's fintech ecosystem is modernizing informal sectors. SusuPaa, an Accra-based fintech startup, recently secured double honors at the Moolre Startup Cup for its platform digitizing the traditional 'susu' savings system. By transitioning paper-based records to digital workflows, SusuPaa has already processed over GHS 12 million in transactions for more than 3,361 members. This drive for modernization is echoed by Development Bank Ghana (DBG), where CEO Prof. Randolph Nsor-Ambala is advocating for tailored financing solutions for the ICT sector. DBG argues that a 'one-size-fits-all' approach is ineffective for the tech industry's diverse value chains, emphasizing the need for structured interventions to unlock growth in both digital infrastructure and agribusiness technology. Complementing these financial advancements, GCB Bank PLC and Absa Bank Ghana are reinforcing their market presence through community impact and service excellence. GCB Bank has committed to a major partnership with the Catholic Church for the West Africa Youth Days 2026, focusing on financial literacy for the region's youth. Simultaneously, GCB staff have partnered with the Ghana National Fire Service to train traders in Accra's major markets, establishing Fire Safety Champions to protect local livelihoods. In the insurance space, Absa Bank Ghana was recently recognized with the Bancassurance Leadership Award 2026 for its success in embedding integrated financial protection into everyday banking. These collective efforts—from CBG's inclusive lending to SusuPaa's digital innovation and GCB's community safety projects—reflect a maturing business landscape dedicated to resilience, technology, and broader social equity.

Ghana’s Economy Projected to Surpass 6.5% Growth as ICT and Services Offset Traditional Sector Declines
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Ghana’s Economy Projected to Surpass 6.5% Growth as ICT and Services Offset Traditional Sector Declines

Ghana’s economic landscape in 2026 is characterized by resilient growth and significant sectoral shifts, with Databank Research projecting a median real GDP growth rate exceeding 6.5% by year-end. According to the Ghana Statistical Service, the economy grew by 6.0% in the second quarter of 2026, a slight cooling from the 6.6% recorded in the same period in 2025. This performance is largely underpinned by a 30.9% surge in the Information and Communication sector and a 14.9% rise in Transport and Storage. However, the growth remains uneven; while the Services sector contributed 57.6% of total GDP growth, traditional industries such as Fishing and Hospitality faced sharp contractions of 24.7% and 7.8%, respectively. While the macro-indicators remain positive, the implementation of the government’s 24-hour economy initiative is facing scrutiny regarding its pace of job creation. Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, Chairman of the National Development Planning Committee, has emphasized that the program has yet to gather full speed and requires a more robust focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) rather than relying on larger corporations. To address these employment gaps, localized initiatives like the Tano South Municipal Assembly’s “HAPPY” project are emerging, aiming to create 326,000 jobs through enhanced production of rice, poultry, and soybean, specifically targeting youth and persons with disabilities. In the corporate and legal spheres, several notable developments have marked the 2026 business year. Japan Motors Trading Company appointed Amine Kabbara as its new Managing Director to lead its growth strategy, while GCB Bank and Prudential Life Insurance Ghana were recognized for their corporate social responsibility efforts, with the latter named CSR Company of the Year 2025. In an unusual legal development, businessman Henry Manly-Spain rejected a GH"79.7 million judgment debt awarded to his company, Servistar Minwax, by an Accra High Court. Manly-Spain contended that he expected a refund of less than GH"10 million for overpaid duties, highlighting a rare instance of a claimant challenging the magnitude of a favorable ruling against the Ghana Revenue Authority. The real estate and labor markets are also reflecting broader economic pressures. Ghana’s property market is experiencing modest, uneven growth driven by inflation and interest rates, prompting new investment models like the aQuaaba resort in Akosombo. On the labor front, the financial challenges facing professionals were highlighted by the viral story of Francis Logah, a trained teacher who transitioned to being an "Okada" rider, claiming he achieved greater financial stability and built a house within a year of leaving the classroom. These domestic trends occur alongside regional shifts, such as Aliko Dangote’s $15 billion plan for a Kenyan refinery and Ivory Coast’s struggles with a new cocoa traceability system, illustrating a complex, rapidly evolving business environment across West and East Africa.

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GHATOF Urges Government to Slash $260 e-Visa Fee to Boost Tourism Competitiveness

The Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF) has formally requested the government to reconsider the current $260 e-Visa fee, warning that the high cost risks making Ghana a less attractive destination for international travelers. According to the federation, the current pricing structure creates a significant barrier to entry, particularly when compared to neighboring West African nations that offer more affordable visa options. This push for reform comes as industry leaders seek to position Ghana as a primary tourism hub in the sub-region, arguing that price transparency and affordability are key to attracting global visitors. Seth Ocran, the President of GHATOF, emphasized that beyond the high costs, delays in application processing are further deterring potential tourists. He noted that to truly compete for global tourism dollars, Ghana must streamline its immigration processes and lower financial hurdles for travelers. This sentiment was strongly supported by the newly appointed Chairman of the GHATOF Board, HRM Drolor Bosso Adamtey I, who called for a comprehensive revision of visa and immigration policies to better align with the nation's economic growth and tourism objectives. In addition to policy advocacy, the federation is highlighting parallel efforts by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to enhance the quality of the local hospitality sector. The GTA is currently focused on professionalizing the industry through mandatory training programs and new accreditation standards. These initiatives are designed to improve service delivery across the board, ensuring that once visitors arrive, their experience meets international standards, thereby encouraging repeat visits and strengthening the country's brand. GHATOF leaders believe that by addressing the e-Visa fee and improving immigration efficiency, the government can unlock significant investment opportunities within the sector. The federation remains committed to collaborating with state agencies to create a more hospitable environment for international travelers. Proponents of the fee review argue that a more accessible visa regime would lead to a higher volume of arrivals, ultimately generating more revenue for the national economy through increased spending on local businesses, hotels, and cultural heritage sites.

President Mahama Commends GoldBod Success as Ghana’s Banking Sector Sees Improved Asset Quality and Credit Ratings
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President Mahama Commends GoldBod Success as Ghana’s Banking Sector Sees Improved Asset Quality and Credit Ratings

Ghana’s economic landscape is showing significant signs of recovery and growth in 2026, highlighted by a massive surge in profits for the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and improved stability in the banking sector. President John Mahama recently commended GoldBod for achieving a net profit of GH¢896 million in 2025—a nearly five-fold increase from the GH¢178.5 million recorded in 2024. Speaking at the 2026 Governing Boards & CEOs’ Conference, President Mahama emphasized that while these gains are historic, the board must focus on sustaining growth through improved core operations rather than relying on favorable exchange rates and external business conditions. This positive momentum is reflected in the broader financial sector, where the Bank of Ghana (BoG) reported a significant decline in non-performing loans (NPLs). As of June 2026, NPLs fell to GH¢19.9 billion, bringing the NPL ratio down to 16.1% from 23.1% the previous year. This improvement in asset quality is mirrored by Fitch Ratings' recent upgrade of Ghana’s creditworthiness to ‘B’ with a Positive outlook, citing a decreasing debt-to-GDP ratio and stabilized economic conditions post-sovereign debt restructuring. Local institutions are also benefiting from this environment; for instance, Manya Krobo Community Bank PLC reported a 131% surge in profit after tax, reaching GH¢9.3 million in 2025. Despite these successes, the Bank of Ghana remains vigilant regarding financial integrity and the rising threat of digital crime. Second Deputy Governor Matilda Asante Asiedu revealed that digital fraud incidents surged by 98% between 2022 and 2025, necessitating a proactive strategy to avoid Ghana being placed back on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. To maintain discipline within the system, the central bank has also reinforced strict penalties for issuing dud cheques, including potential three-year bans for repeat offenders. Meanwhile, the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) is calling on commercial banks to provide more tailored financing for energy efficiency projects to help businesses mitigate operational costs. On the international front, external pressures continue to pose risks to domestic price stability. Global Brent crude prices have surpassed $100 per barrel amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, leading the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) to warn of imminent fuel price hikes. While the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has deferred immediate fare increases following government interventions on diesel prices, the situation remains fluid. In the commodities market, gold prices have edged higher to approximately $4,412 per ounce due to a weaker US dollar, providing a hedge for investors as the Ghanaian Cedi maintains a stable exchange rate of approximately GHS12.15 at forex bureaus as of September 2026.

PURC Flags High Water Losses as Western Region Records 66% Non-Revenue Water in Q1 2026
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PURC Flags High Water Losses as Western Region Records 66% Non-Revenue Water in Q1 2026

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has raised concerns over escalating levels of non-revenue water (NRW) within Ghana's urban water sector, with the Western Region, Accra West, and Tema identified as the areas of most significant concern. According to the Commission's report for the first quarter of 2026, the Western Region recorded a staggering 66.1% loss, followed by Accra West at 57.2% and Tema at 56.8%. These figures contributed to an overall national non-revenue water level of 49.2% for Ghana Water Limited (GWL), significantly exceeding the regulatory benchmark of 43%. The report highlights a systemic challenge for Ghana Water Limited, as only three out of its 13 operational regions managed to meet the 43% benchmark during the period under review. While the Western Region faces the most critical situation, other regions including Ashanti North, Upper East, and Volta recorded levels closer to the threshold, suggesting that targeted corrective measures could bring them into compliance relatively quickly. The PURC has emphasized that the high levels of water produced but not billed—due to physical leakages, commercial losses, or metering inaccuracies—pose a threat to the financial and operational sustainability of the national utility provider. Despite the high loss percentages, there were positive indicators regarding production and revenue collection efficiency. National water production saw a marginal increase of 1% in Q1 2026, while water sales grew by 3.7% in the same period. This discrepancy suggests an improvement in the conversion of produced water into billed sales, particularly within the Accra-Tema Metropolitan Area, which remains the country's largest and most critical water-producing system. However, the Commission noted that these efficiency gains are currently being offset by the sheer volume of physical and commercial losses in high-pressure urban zones. To address these inefficiencies, the PURC has recommended the immediate implementation of comprehensive loss-reduction programs. These interventions include intensified leakage detection exercises, the replacement of faulty meters, and improved billing management systems. For the Western Region specifically, the Commission is calling for a prioritized intervention strategy to stabilize the network. As the regulator, PURC maintains that reducing non-revenue water is imperative for enhancing the overall performance of GWL and ensuring that the utility can reinvest in infrastructure to meet the growing demand for clean water across Ghana.

Ghana’s Digital Economy Advances as NCA Clears 5G Bidders and New E-Commerce Platforms Launch
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Ghana’s Digital Economy Advances as NCA Clears 5G Bidders and New E-Commerce Platforms Launch

Ghana’s digital landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as the National Communications Authority (NCA) advances its 5G spectrum licensing and new e-commerce solutions emerge to support small businesses. The NCA recently announced that three companies—Scancom Plc (MTN Ghana), Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (Telecel Ghana), and Goal Telecommunications Ltd—have successfully cleared the technical and eligibility assessment stages for 5G licensing. Out of four initial applicants, only Infrava Ltd failed to qualify. The remaining contenders will now move to the next phase, which involves the opening and ranking of their Best Price Offers, bringing the country closer to high-speed 5G connectivity. In tandem with these infrastructure gains, Telecel Ghana is expanding its digital services through the launch of 'Telecel Shop.' Integrated within the Telecel Play App and developed in partnership with Flood Pte Ltd, the platform is designed to connect consumers with trusted merchants in a secure environment. Philip Amoateng, Managing Director of Telecel Cash, emphasized that the initiative aims to create a seamless digital ecosystem for both consumers and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This focus on community and customer reward was further highlighted by Telecel’s 'M’ahitti' promotion, which recently awarded a GH¢1 million grand prize to Adiza Ibrahim, a widowed mother of eight from Prang, to support her children’s education and new business goals. Grassroots innovation is also playing a vital role in this digital shift, led by three students from Heritage Christian University. Edmund Alagpulinsa, Selasi Nyatepe Attipoe, and Kwabena Boah Lartey have launched 'Panta,' an online marketplace tailored for small businesses that lack the resources for traditional website development. Launched in 2026, Panta allows vendors to set up free digital storefronts via their mobile phones, facilitating payments through mobile money and cards. The platform aims to solve logistical hurdles by targeting a 48-hour delivery window, providing a simplified entry point for technical novices to participate in the growing online economy. These combined developments—ranging from high-level telecommunications infrastructure to student-led tech startups—signal a robust outlook for Ghana’s business sector. As the NCA finalizes the 5G licensing process and Telecel prepares for a wider rollout of its shop platform in October 2026, the barriers to digital entry for SMEs are steadily decreasing. The integration of faster connectivity and accessible e-commerce tools suggests a more inclusive economic future where local businesses can leverage technology to reach wider markets more efficiently.

Accra-Kumasi Expressway to create 30,000 jobs – Finance Minister Ato Forson
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Finance Minister Ato Forson Announces 30,000 Jobs from Accra-Kumasi Expressway and $350M Flood Control Project

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced the upcoming construction of the Accra-Kumasi Expressway, a landmark infrastructure project projected to generate approximately 30,000 direct and indirect jobs for Ghanaians. The initiative is a cornerstone of the government's strategy to enhance national connectivity and stimulate economic growth. By modernizing the link between Ghana's two largest cities, the project aims to improve livelihoods and save lives by providing a safer, more efficient transit route for both commercial and private commuters. The expressway is designed as a modern, six-lane, access-controlled highway specifically engineered to alleviate the chronic traffic congestion that has long plagued the existing route. Beyond mere transport, Dr. Forson emphasized that the project will serve as a vital economic corridor, facilitating the rapid movement of goods and people. This infrastructure is expected to bolster domestic commerce and regional trade, while providing the necessary framework to support new industrial parks and logistics hubs along its path. In a complementary effort to stabilize the economic environment in the Greater Accra region, a $350 million flood control initiative is also set to commence in December 2026. The Dam Spillage Flood Control (DSFC) Project, managed by the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly in collaboration with the Hi-Limit Group, seeks to end the perennial flooding caused by the Weija Dam. With $325 million in funding already secured, the project will involve the construction of a high-level concrete levee canal to direct excess water safely into the Atlantic Ocean. This flood control project is designed to be a permanent solution for vulnerable communities such as Tetegu and Oblogo, ensuring that local businesses and residents are protected without the need for mass demolitions. Together, the Accra-Kumasi Expressway and the DSFC project represent a multi-faceted approach to national development, addressing both the physical bottlenecks of trade and the environmental risks that threaten economic stability. As these projects move into their respective implementation phases, they are expected to provide a significant boost to the construction sector and provide long-term benefits for the nation's industrial landscape. The government maintains that these investments are essential for creating a resilient economy capable of supporting the next generation of Ghanaian entrepreneurs and workers.