Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has presented the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament.
According to him, the 2026 Budget, themed “Resetting for Growth, Jobs and Economic Transformation,” is aimed at consolidating macroeconomic stability while unlocking investments in infrastructure, agriculture, energy and social sectors to create sustainable jobs.
Presenting he budget in Parliament on Thursday, November 13, the minister outlined several outcomes and measures contained in the budget.
He stated that the economy had recovered strongly, reporting real GDP growth of 6.3% which higher than initial projections.
Total public debt has also declined sharply from GH¢726.7 billion in 2024 to GH¢630.2 billion by October 2025.
Inflation had also reached single digits and is projected to move towards an 8% target in 2026.
The budget further sets macroeconomic targets including a primary surplus of 1.5% of GDP and an expected real GDP growth of at least 4.8% next year.
The minister confirmed the abolition of the 2.5% COVID-19 Levy, a move which is expected to save households and businesses GH¢3.7 billion in 2026.
VAT reforms will also take effect, reducing the effective rate from 21.9% to 20% while increasing the VAT registration threshold from GH¢200,000 to GH¢750,000 to support small and medium enterprises.
Ato Forson then noted that the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme is allocated GH¢4.2 billion for 2026, including funding to upgrade existing schools and complete abandoned infrastructure.
The “No-Fee Stress” tertiary policy also receives GH¢499.8 million to cover first-year university fees, while GH¢474 million is allocated for nursing trainee allowances.
The National Health Insurance Scheme is allocated GH¢9.93 billion, including provisions for free primary healthcare. Additionally, GH¢2.3 billion has been earmarked for the Ghana Medical Care Trust (MahamaCares).
On job creation, the minister said government targets 800,000 new jobs in 2026, leveraging initiatives under the 24-Hour Economy programme.
The Big Push Infrastructure Programme receives GH¢30 billion for strategic road and bridge projects nationwide, including the transformation of the Accra–Kumasi highway into a six-lane expressway to significantly reduce travel time.
Under the revised National Housing Programme, construction of 10,000 affordable housing units will continue across the Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Northern Regions.
GH¢150 million has also been allocated to the Black Stars for their preparation and participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting national teams.
“This is not just a recovery, it is a reset, a new beginning for our nation,” the minister said.
“This Budget builds on the stability of 2025 and channels it into action that delivers more jobs, better infrastructure, stronger industries, and better public services.”
