Recent data from the Ghana Statistical Service’s Multidimensional Poverty Index Survey highlights remarkable improvements in poverty rates across all regions of Ghana between 2020 and 2024. This period has seen considerable strides in poverty reduction, showcasing the effectiveness of various economic and social policies implemented during these years.
Greater Accra Leads the Way
Greater Accra recorded one of the most significant reductions in poverty incidence, dropping from 22.5% in 2020 to 11.7% in 2024. This nearly 50% reduction underscores the region’s growing economic vitality and enhanced social infrastructure, which have contributed to better living standards for its residents.
Ashanti Region’s Notable Progress
Ashanti Region also demonstrated substantial progress, with poverty rates falling from 31.1% in 2020 to 18.3% in 2024. This improvement reflects the region’s successful initiatives in boosting local economies and providing better access to essential services.
Eastern and Central Regions’ Impressive Gains
The Eastern Region saw its poverty incidence more than halved, decreasing from 44.0% in 2020 to 21.7% in 2024. Similarly, the Central Region experienced a significant reduction from 47.6% to 22.5% over the same period. These changes highlight effective regional development strategies and increased investment in human capital.
Western Region’s Dual Success
In the Western Region, which includes Western and Western North, poverty rates dropped from 47.6% in 2020 to 25.7% and 27.0% respectively in 2024. This dual success indicates targeted efforts in resource-rich areas to ensure equitable growth and development.
Volta and Oti Regions See Major Improvements
The combined data for Volta and Oti regions shows a considerable decrease in poverty incidence from 58.2% in 2020 to 27.3% and 40.8% respectively in 2024. This reduction is a testament to focused poverty alleviation programs and infrastructural advancements in these areas.
Bono, Ahafo, and Bono East Regions’ Achievements
The Brong Ahafo area, now split into Bono, Ahafo, and Bono East regions, witnessed a dramatic drop in poverty rates from 49.4% in 2020 to 17.1%, 24.2%, and 24.7% respectively in 2024. These figures reflect the positive impact of regional reorganization and development policies aimed at improving local economies.
Northern, Savanna, and North East Regions’ Significant Declines
The northern part of the country, encompassing Northern, Savanna, and North East regions, saw a steep decline in poverty rates from 80.8% in 2020 to an average of 49.77% in 2024. This reduction marks a crucial turning point for an area historically plagued by high poverty levels, driven by enhanced agricultural productivity and social interventions.
Upper East and Upper West Regions’ Remarkable Reductions
The Upper East and Upper West regions recorded significant decreases in poverty, with the Upper East moving from 68.1% in 2020 to 43% in 2024, and the Upper West from 65.5% to 37.4%. These improvements highlight the success of targeted initiatives to boost economic opportunities and improve living conditions in these northern regions.
A Nationwide Achievement
Overall, Ghana’s nationwide efforts to reduce poverty have yielded impressive results. The significant declines in poverty rates across all 16 regions of the country between 2020 and 2024 reflect the effectiveness of comprehensive strategies aimed at economic growth, social development, and poverty alleviation.
The Ghana Statistical Service Multidimensional Poverty Index Survey’s findings are a testament to the country’s progress and a hopeful indicator for the future, where continued efforts could further alleviate poverty and enhance the quality of life for all Ghanaians.
For more detailed regional analysis and policy implications, visit the Ghana Statistical Service website or follow our upcoming detailed reports on regional development initiatives.