Data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reveals a drop in the unemployment rate for females during the 2022 festive season.

This was highlighted in their latest Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey (AHIES) report for the 3rd quarter of 2023.

From the first quarter of 2022 to the third quarter of 2023, female unemployment was consistently higher than male unemployment, with the most recent figures showing a rate of 17.7 per cent for women compared to 10.9 per cent for men.

However, an interesting observation emerged regarding female employment during the festive season, as reflected in the transition from the third to the fourth quarter.

During this period, the unemployment rate for women decreased from 16.6 per cent to 12.3 per cent. Subsequently, in the first quarter of 2023, the unemployment rate surged back up to 18.2 per cent.

While these findings suggest a potential correlation between the festive season and increased female employment, further data is required to establish a conclusive link.

The pertinent question remains: what factors contributed to the significant reduction in the unemployment rate during this period for women?

Additionally, there is a need to identify the specific types of employment opportunities available to women during the festive season that may not be as prevalent throughout the year.

Looking ahead, the GSS has indicated its intention to release thematic reports in the future, which will delve deeper into the nature of employment opportunities for women during the festive season.

These forthcoming reports aim to provide a better understanding of the roles and sectors driving female employment dynamics during this period.