President John Mahama has called for an end to the ongoing US-Iran conflict, saying continued global uncertainty could prevent Ghana from fully translating its improving economic performance into lower business costs.
Addressing the US-Ghana Presidential Roundtable in New York, President Mahama highlighted Ghana’s recent economic gains, noting that the economy grew by 6% in 2025 and expanded by 6.4% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026.
He said inflation has also declined significantly, although it has recently increased to 5%.
President Mahama said the conflict in Iran remains a major challenge to the global economic environment and expressed hope for a swift resolution.
“Of course, everybody knows what’s happening in Iran. We’re praying that that conflict comes to an end early. I’m sure that the US itself is feeling the pinch of that war,” he said.
He emphasised that economic stability should not remain a statistical achievement but must deliver practical benefits for businesses and investors.
“These gains matter, but stability is not an end in itself. We start stability so businesses can plan with greater certainty. Investors can decide with greater confidence and productive enterprises can grow,” President Mahama said.
According to him, the focus must now shift towards ensuring that the benefits of economic stabilisation are reflected in the cost of capital and other expenses faced by businesses.
He called for lower interest rates and greater access to long-term financing to support business expansion, increased production and job creation.
“The gains we have made must now begin to show in the cost of doing business. Interest rates must come down. Long-term financing must become more available.”
President Mahama further stressed the need for increased investment in sectors capable of driving sustainable economic growth.
“More capital must also flow into agriculture, manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, technology, and other productive activities,” he added.
