A survey conducted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has found that most Ghanaians are satisfied with the country’s current economic direction.
This was revealed in a press release dated January 21, 2026.
Ghana experienced significant changes in 2025. A new government took office, and the macroeconomic environment improved markedly, though many socioeconomic challenges remain.
Against this backdrop, the IEA carried out a nationwide poll to gauge public opinion on whether Ghana is headed in the right direction.
The poll covered all 16 regions of Ghana and was conducted between December 20 and 28, 2025. According to the press release, “Based on responses from 1,022 respondents, the poll reveals that: Most Ghanaians (58%) are happy with the direction of the country.”
It added, “The new government came with new economic and development policies, along witMajority of Ghanaians Believe the Country Is Moving in the Right Directionh a leadership style which has sparked significant debate about where the country is headed.
Therefore, we asked citizens whether they were happy with the way things were going in the country. Most respondents (58%) said they were happy. By contrast, 34% indicated that they were not happy with how things were going, while 8% said they were not sure.”
The results reflect the macroeconomic gains recorded in 2025. The cedi appreciated by about 32% against the U.S. dollar between 2024 and 2025.
The stronger cedi, along with broader economic improvements, helped ease inflationary pressures, lowering fuel prices at the pump and the cost of some imported goods. Consequently, inflation fell sharply from 23.8% in 2024 to 5.4% in 2025.
Other developments that may have influenced public perception include:
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The debt-to-GDP ratio declining from 61.8% at the end of 2024 to 45% by October 2025;
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The average lending rate dropping from 30.2% to 22.2%; and
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Gradual recovery from the effects of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme on citizens.
As a result, confidence is slowly returning, and many Ghanaians are increasingly hopeful for a better future under the new government.
However, the 34% who expressed dissatisfaction shows that a significant minority remains unhappy with national progress. This underscores the fragility of public optimism and the importance of addressing issues that directly affect daily life.
In conclusion, the survey indicates that most Ghanaians are happy with the country’s direction. The IEA attributes this satisfaction to the new government’s policies, which have improved the economy and inspired hope.
“This renewed optimism presents a unique opportunity for the government to pursue bold structural reforms in Ghana to sustain the gains made,” the press release stated.
