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The latest Ghana Human Development Report 2023 (GNHDR) shows that Ghana’s workforce is struggling to secure meaningful employment opportunities. Despite high economic growth over the past decade, the informal sector still accounts for 75% of the workforce and youth unemployment and underemployment remain a major challenge.
The report jointly released by the United Nations Development Programme, the Ghana Statistical Service and the National Development Planning Commission shows that young people aged 15-24 are particularly affected by unemployment, with up to 65% of young people being unemployed.
This trend has implications for the country’s long-term development goals and human development, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address youth unemployment and promote inclusive economic growth.
The report, titled “The Future Value of Jobs in Ghana: Pathways to Sustainable Employment”, highlights the need for Ghana to bridge the gap between current opportunities and future jobs through strategic investments in human capital and infrastructure to create an environment conducive to sustainable employment for all.
“For Ghana to achieve its long-term development goals and reduce unemployment, it must invest in building human capital and enhancing access to technology and digital infrastructure for all. This will create an enabling environment for sustainable job creation and economic growth,” said Angela Lusigi, UNDP Resident Representative in Ghana.
The report emphasizes the interconnectedness of work and human development and calls for reimagining academic curricula to incorporate science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEM/STEAM) education and entrepreneurial training to prepare young people for the future job market.
“The report’s findings provide important insights into the relationship between work and human development, urging stakeholders to adopt policies that promote inclusive growth and sustainable employment,” said government statistician Professor Samuel Kobina Annim.
The report also recommends simplifying regulations and providing targeted training to formalize the informal sector and create more stable jobs. In addition, efficient and reliable infrastructure such as energy, transportation, water, information and communication technology, and housing are essential for future work.
Kojo Essem Mensah-Abrampa, Director General of the National Innovation Policy Centre, noted: “By investing in infrastructure and promoting entrepreneurship, Ghana can tap into the potential of its youth and the informal sector to drive socio-economic transformation and create jobs.”
Achieving national consensus on long-term development plans is essential for sustained progress. As Ghana moves towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 and reaching its centenary of independence in 2057, the 2023 Ghana Human Development Report calls for a strategic focus on job creation, infrastructure investment, and education reform. By addressing these key areas, Ghana can pave the way for a future where every citizen can enjoy decent work and improved living standards.
The report’s findings and recommendations provide a roadmap for Ghana’s socio-economic transformation, the implementation of which will require the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, including government, the private sector, civil society and individuals.
Please visit the 2023 Ghana Human Development Report (GNHDR) here
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