The Government of Ghana has presented its budget seeking a sum of GH¢357.1 billion in appropriation for the year ending 31st December 2026. The Budget which was read on Thursday by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson is the second since President John Dramani Mahama was sworn into office for a second on January 7th, 2025. According to Dr. Forson, the 2026 budget offers “a rebirth from the ashes of a daunting inheritance” on the back of an impressive economic rebound after a period of difficulty after the pandemic.
He said, “We have restored fiscal discipline, brought inflation under control, stabilised the cedi, and rekindled investor confidence. Ghana’s economy is breathing again, stronger, steadier, and full of promise. This is not just a recovery; it is a reset. It is the story of a nation that refused to stay down.”
The 2026 Budget is hinged on three focal points which make up the government’s ‘strategic priorities to reset for growth, jobs, and transformation as outlined by the Minister; consolidating macroeconomic stability, accelerating economic transformation and job creation, and strengthening security and social sectors for inclusive growth. Yet, in the medium-term, the Mahama administration is looking to sustain a primary surplus of at least 1.5 percent of GDP (on commitment basis) with revenue and grants projected to rise from 16 percent in 2025 to 16.8 percent of GDP in 2026 and 16.9 percent by 2029. All powered by stronger tax compliance as government explores broadening the tax net against raising existing rates.
Further, total revenue and grants is projected to rise by 18.3 percent from GH¢226.7 billion in 2025 to GH¢268.1 billion, with non-oil tax revenue projected to contribute GH¢216.1 billion on the back of improved compliance and enforcement. Meanwhile, petroleum receipts are expected to add about GH¢13.6 billion to the economy given the stability of world market prices. For expenditure, Dr. Forson noted a total projected spend by 18.9 percent of GH¢302.5 billion which is up from GH¢251.7 billion in 2025. The increase in expenditure is owed to a number of planned infrastructure projects that have been captured under “big push” to happen around the country. The projects range from completing several abandoned projects to roads as well as initiating new classroom projects for learners at both basic and secondary levels. Also, employee compensation is projected to take up GH¢90.8 billion off the budget with the recent announcement of a 9% increase of public sector workers enrolled on the Single Spine Salary Structure which takes effect from next year.
In view of the size of expenditure, there is enough that must done rake in as much revenue in addition to sealing revenue leakages everywhere as alluded by the finance minister who disclosed that out of the GH¢204 billion worth of goods imported into the country in 2024, only GH¢85 billion was taxable. As a result, government has identified Artificial Intelligence solutions to boost efficiency at Ghana’s Ports.
“This technology is programmed to detect under-valuation, flag high-risk goods, and strengthen Customs’ capacity to combat smuggling, improve safety, and protect national security. By integrating automation into port operations, we expect to significantly boost customs revenue, enhance trade efficiency, and close long-standing revenue gaps,” he disclosed