Ghana's economy to hit $128.64 billion in 2026, remain Africa's 8th largest – IMF

Ghana’s economy is projected to reach US$128.64 billion in 2026, keeping the country among Africa’s 10 largest economies, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The projection places Ghana ahead of Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, whose economies are estimated at US$127.15 billion and US$122.28 billion, respectively.

The IMF’s latest database puts Ghana’s projected economic output at US$128.64 billion, measured by the value of goods and services produced in the country at current prices and expressed in US dollars.

The figure is US$13.93 billion higher than the earlier estimate of US$114.71 billion cited in the report, representing an upward revision of approximately 12.1 per cent.

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Separately, the IMF projects Ghana’s economy to grow by 5.7 per cent in 2026 after adjusting for price changes. This is higher than the 4.5 per cent growth forecast for sub-Saharan Africa.

The two figures measure different aspects of economic performance. The dollar value of an economy can change due to production levels, prices and exchange rates, while the real growth rate measures changes in economic output after accounting for price movements.

South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria are expected to retain their positions as Africa’s three largest economies. Algeria, Morocco, Angola and Kenya are projected to rank ahead of Ghana.

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Ghana’s projected ranking highlights its economic position on the continent. However, a larger economy does not necessarily mean households have greater purchasing power or that businesses are creating enough jobs.

DR/MA

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