Ghana recorded a steady increase in international travel and port activity at the start of 2026, according to the Bank of Ghana’s March 2026 Monetary Policy Report, even though short-term monthly figures showed a decline in overall movement.
Passenger traffic through Kotoka International Airport rose by 8.7 percent year-on-year in January 2026, reaching 110,087 arrivals. This compares with 101,237 passengers recorded during the same period in 2025, reflecting continued recovery in air travel.
However, when measured on a monthly basis, total passenger arrivals at both Kotoka International Airport and land borders fell by 18.9 percent, indicating a slowdown in travel activity compared to the previous month.
Port Activity Shows Strong Annual Growth
In the maritime sector, Ghana’s two main ports—Tema and Takoradi—recorded notable growth in container traffic during the review period.
Total laden container throughput increased by 13.6 percent year-on-year, rising to 74,508 containers in January 2026 from 65,594 recorded in January 2025. The improvement reflects stronger trade activity in both imports and exports.
However, on a month-on-month basis, container traffic declined by 9.8 percent, dropping from 82,624 containers in December 2025.
Mixed Short-Term Performance Amid Annual Gains
The report highlights a pattern of steady annual growth in both aviation and port operations, despite short-term monthly fluctuations.
While passenger arrivals and container movements dipped compared to the previous month, the year-on-year performance suggests sustained recovery in Ghana’s external sector activities, particularly in trade and travel flows.
