Job Scarcity Hits Ghana, GSS Reveals Alarming Trend

Accra, Ghana - 25 Feb, 2025 -  recent report Ghana Statistical Service's (GSS) has highlighted the struggles of Ghana's job market, with the country's economy failing to create enough employment opportunities to absorb the growing number of job seekers.

The latest findings titled “National Report on Productivity, Employment, and Growth”, reveal a worrying trend, with the employment rate plummeting over the past two decades. According to the report, the economy’s labour absorption capacity, has declined from 73.9 percent to 55.7 percent between 2000 and 2021.

“This suggests that even though the Ghanaian economy is creating employment opportunities, this is not sufficient to absorb the growing working age population” the report read.

Experts warn that the situation is likely to worsen unless the government implements policies to stimulate economic growth and create more job opportunities. The report's authors emphasize the need for sustainable employment opportunities that offer fair pay, security, and dignity.

According to the report, in 2000, a total of 7.43 million people were employed and this increased to 10.2 million in 2010, representing 3.3 percent annual employment growth over the period.

“In 2021, about 9.99 million people were employed. This represents a reduction of employment of 0.7% annual average from 2010”.

“Decent work is productive work for women and men in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity. The concept of decent work is anchored on four key pillars, namely, productive employment, social dialogue, rights at work and social protection”, it said.

Ghana's youth are disproportionately affected, with many struggling to find employment that matches their skills and aspirations. The report's findings have sparked calls for urgent action to address the issue, with critics arguing that the government's current efforts are insufficient.

As the country grapples with the challenges of unemployment, policymakers are under pressure to develop innovative solutions that will drive economic growth and create decent work opportunities for all.

Source: Lead News Online