IMF Raises Ghana's 2026 Growth Outlook to 5.7%
The International Monetary Fund has raised Ghana's 2026 economic growth forecast to 5.7%, exceeding the government's budget target of at least 4.8%. The October World Economic Outlook also projects 5.2% growth in 2027 and average inflation of 4.8% this year. The upgrade follows 6.0% growth in the second quarter and a current account surplus as Ghana recovers from its 2022 foreign debt default.
The IMF’s October outlook, issued during Bangkok meetings, lifted Ghana’s 2026 growth estimate to 5.7%, above the government’s 4.8% floor. It also projects 5.2% growth for 2027 and average 2026 inflation of 4.8%, with year-end inflation at 7.0%, inside the 8% ±2 target band.
The upgrade follows 6.0% second-quarter growth and a current account surplus, as Ghana recovers from its December 2022 external debt default. The fund sees public debt at 51.7% of GDP, down from 70.1% in 2024, and nominal output near $128.6 billion.
Faster growth could ease fiscal pressure and support jobs and incomes, though gains may not reach all households evenly. Investors in Ghana’s restructured dollar bonds and firms such as Newmont and Kosmos Energy may see improved confidence. For travellers, entry rules and safety advice remain unchanged. The next budget and quarterly GDP data may shape expectations.