The government faces growing public pressure to make job creation and relief from the rising cost of living central to the 2027 Budget, as a new survey by KPMG and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) identifies employment as the biggest concern among Ghanaians.
The pre-budget survey indicates that although macroeconomic conditions have shown signs of improvement, citizens and businesses expect the gains to translate into better living conditions, stronger employment prospects and a more supportive business environment.
About 71 per cent of respondents identified job creation and youth employment as the country’s most pressing national priority, placing it ahead of all other concerns captured in the survey.
The cost of living followed at 54 per cent, reflecting persistent household financial pressures despite the recent decline in headline inflation.
Electricity supply also featured prominently, with 34 per cent of respondents calling for improvements, while 22 per cent identified the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, as a priority.
The findings further highlight concerns about the impact of illegal mining on economic activity, with 90 per cent of respondents saying the practice damages the business environment.
For businesses, the survey points to the need for policies that support expansion, competitiveness and employment generation.
Business growth and competitiveness emerged as the leading priority for companies, cited by 59 per cent of respondents, closely followed by job creation at 58 per cent.
Access to finance remains a significant challenge, with 36 per cent of businesses identifying it as a major concern. Another 32 per cent called for greater investment in infrastructure to support commercial activities.
The report also draws attention to the importance of policy predictability, particularly in taxation, as businesses prepare for the 2027 fiscal year.
About 90 per cent of businesses said advance notice of tax changes was important for effective planning, while 64 per cent wanted at least four months’ notice before new tax measures are implemented.
Power supply remains another major concern for the private sector. Only 36 per cent of respondents described the current electricity supply as reliable, reinforcing calls for improvements in distribution and service delivery.
On financing, the report recommends policies to make credit more accessible and affordable, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, which play an important role in job creation.
It also raises concerns about public financial management, with 44 per cent of respondents expressing low confidence in the efficiency of government expenditure.
The findings suggest that expectations for the 2027 Budget go beyond maintaining macroeconomic stability. Citizens want tangible improvements in employment and household welfare, while businesses are seeking predictable policies, reliable infrastructure and affordable financing.
Government’s challenge, therefore, will be to align its spending priorities and economic policies with these expectations, ensuring that the recovery creates opportunities for households and supports businesses to expand and generate sustainable jobs.
