A new survey by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has revealed that seven out of 10 Ghanaians remain deeply concerned about rising food prices and the escalating cost of living, even as inflation stands at 3.8%.
The poll, conducted in December 2025, sampled more than 1,000 respondents across all regions of the country. According to the findings, 71% of respondents said they were very concerned about the price of food and other consumer goods.
The survey paints a picture of persistent economic anxiety among households, despite signs of macroeconomic improvement and strong approval ratings for President John Dramani Mahama.
Beyond the rising cost of living, unemployment, and illegal mining also ranked high among national concerns.
About 46% of respondents identified unemployment as one of the most pressing challenges facing the country, while 30% cited illegal mining as a major issue.
The IEA explained that the survey was designed to gauge public opinion on prevailing socio-economic pressures one year after the 2024 general election and to assess perceptions of President Mahama’s job performance since assuming office.
President Mahama was sworn into office on January 7, 2025, amid high public expectations and significant economic challenges, including elevated public debt, inflationary pressures, a depreciating currency, unemployment and concerns about the size of government.
Despite the concerns expressed by respondents, the President continues to enjoy substantial public support.
The survey found that 68% of Ghanaians approve of the way he is handling his job, compared to 22% who disapprove and 10% who expressed no opinion.
According to the IEA, while key economic indicators such as inflation appear to be improving, many households continue to experience financial strain in their daily lives.
The findings reflect what the Institute describes as a mixed national mood — strong approval of the President’s performance on one hand, and sustained anxiety over living costs and household economic pressures on the other.
