Seven out of ten Ghanaians are deeply concerned about rising food prices and the escalating cost of living, according to a new survey conducted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA).
The findings highlight persistent economic anxiety nationwide, even as President John Dramani Mahama continues to enjoy strong public approval ratings.
In a press release issued on February 11, 2026, the IEA revealed that 71 per cent of respondents said they were “very concerned” about the rising cost of food and other consumer goods. The survey, conducted in December 2025, sampled over 1,000 respondents across all regions of Ghana.
Unemployment and illegal mining also emerged as major national concerns, with 46 per cent of respondents identifying unemployment as a pressing issue, while 30 per cent cited illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
“The survey was designed to assess public opinion on prevailing socio-economic pressures one year after the 2024 general election, as well as to evaluate perceptions of the President’s job performance,” the IEA stated.
The think tank noted that although some macroeconomic indicators appear to be improving, many households continue to experience significant financial strain.
Despite these concerns, the survey found that 68 per cent of respondents approve of President Mahama’s performance in office, while 22 per cent disapprove and 10 per cent expressed no opinion.
The findings suggest a complex national sentiment in which confidence in leadership coexists with frustration over everyday economic challenges.
President Mahama, who assumed office on January 7, 2025, inherited an economy facing high public debt, inflationary pressures, currency depreciation and rising unemployment.
The IEA concluded that the survey reflects “a mixed national mood” — strong approval of the President’s performance alongside sustained concern about rising living costs and household economic pressures.
