Food prices could rise as El Niño threatens farming and power supply

Ghanaians could face higher food prices and increased costs of goods and services if an expected El Niño event affects agricultural production and electricity supply, Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrisu has warned.

He said the government must take early measures to minimise the potential impact of the weather phenomenon on households, farmers and businesses.

El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon involving changes in ocean temperatures that can influence weather patterns across the world. In Ghana, it could result in reduced rainfall, affecting crop production and water availability.

Dr Iddrisu explained that inadequate rainfall could lead to lower agricultural yields, reducing food supply and pushing prices upwards.

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“If there are shortages in food supply, that can affect food prices,” he said.

He also warned that reduced rainfall could affect water inflows into the Akosombo Dam and other hydroelectric facilities, potentially disrupting electricity generation.

A decline in hydropower production could put additional pressure on electricity supply and increase operating costs for businesses. Such increases could eventually be passed on to consumers through higher prices for goods and services.

The potential impact could also extend beyond Ghana's borders, as adverse weather conditions in countries supplying imported goods could disrupt production and increase import costs.

Cocoa production could equally be affected by changing rainfall patterns, potentially reducing harvests and affecting farmers' incomes.

The warning comes as Ghana's inflation rate rose to 5.5 per cent in October 2026, raising concerns about the possible impact of climate-related disruptions on the cost of living.

The period between November 2026 and April 2027 has been identified as a key window of concern for the expected weather phenomenon.

Dr Iddrisu urged the government to rely on weather forecasts and climate information to guide early planning and interventions.

He stressed the need for proactive measures to safeguard food supplies, protect electricity generation and minimise the potential burden on household budgets.

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The warning highlights the link between climate conditions, food security, energy production and the broader cost of living, underscoring the importance of preparedness in limiting the economic effects of extreme weather events.

DR/MA

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