Professor Peter Quartey, former Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), has urged the Finance Minister to use the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review to strengthen domestic revenue mobilization and accelerate investment in key sectors. He specifically highlighted agriculture and manufacturing as critical areas for job creation and sustainable economic growth. This call comes as the Finance Minister prepares to present the budget review to Parliament today, July 23, 2026.
Professor Quartey emphasized that while Ghana has made progress in achieving macroeconomic stability, the next phase of economic management must focus on expanding productive sectors. He believes that these sectors are essential for generating employment and sustaining long-term growth. Improving government revenue must align with strategic spending on areas that have the greatest economic impact.
This recommendation fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of diversifying its economy beyond raw material exports and addressing persistent unemployment challenges. The country has consistently sought to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports, a goal that agriculture and manufacturing directly support. Previous government initiatives, such as 'Planting for Food and Jobs', have aimed to stimulate these sectors, though implementation challenges often arise.
“But one area has to do with our real sector, manufacturing and agriculture. I think that’s where I want to see the injection,” Professor Quartey stated. He added, “But those are the two key areas that create jobs, that create the most jobs. So what incentives are we providing to the private sector? That’s where the injection should go.” This direct appeal underscores the urgency of targeted policy interventions.
The government's response to these recommendations will shape Ghana's economic trajectory in the coming years. Decision-makers will need to consider how to best incentivize private sector investment and improve critical infrastructure, such as irrigation, to unlock the full potential of these sectors. The budget review will be closely watched for concrete policy measures addressing these priorities.
Professor Quartey also called for increased support for farmers across the agricultural value chain. He described irrigation and farmer assistance as essential for improving food production and strengthening food security. He expressed concern that neighboring countries are making greater progress in irrigated agriculture despite Ghana's potential. “It’s a shame that we go to Burkina Faso, who are irrigating their tomato and other food production, and then we import onions from other countries,” he noted.
Beyond agriculture and manufacturing, Professor Quartey identified sanitation as another sector requiring sustained government attention. He argued that improvements in public services are necessary to complement economic growth. He also urged the government to sustain investment in its flagship infrastructure programme, the 'Big Push', but called for faster implementation. “The ‘Big Push’ is great, I think, honestly. But it is not moving at a pace that I would have expected,” he explained.
The Finance Minister's budget presentation is expected to outline the economy's performance during the first half of 2026. It will also include updated fiscal projections and policy measures aimed at sustaining macroeconomic stability. The focus will be on promoting growth, employment, and improved domestic revenue mobilization, aligning with Professor Quartey's recommendations. Addressing these areas effectively will be crucial for Ghana's economic resilience and development.