In its latest State of the Ghanaian Economy Report, the Institute of Statistical, Social, and Economic Research (ISSER) has highlighted food inflation as a persistent challenge for Ghana’s economy.

ISSER urges swift and aggressive measures under the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs program (PFJ 2.0) to support the value chain, aiming to reduce food prices and ease the overall cost of living for Ghanaians.

Food prices in Ghana remain stubbornly high, affecting households nationwide and intensifying the need for targeted interventions, ISSER’s report states.

“Food inflation remains high, and PFJ 2.0 should aggressively support the value chain,” ISSER states, underscoring the need for immediate action in boosting production efficiency, storage, and distribution within the agriculture sector.

ISSER also stresses that inflation and exchange rate depreciation continue to drive up the cost of living, suggesting that a concerted focus on these areas could bring significant relief.

“Addressing inflation and exchange rate depreciation will help reduce the cost of living,” ISSER points out, noting that while inflation has seen marginal declines, high food prices persist, placing immense pressure on household budgets.

According to the report, strategic value chain improvements under PFJ 2.0 could stabilize food prices and ensure better food security across the nation.

“Support throughout the agricultural value chain is essential for both economic resilience and food security,” the report adds, suggesting that this approach will help Ghana’s economy withstand external shocks while reducing dependency on costly imports.

As Ghana grapples with rising prices and an unpredictable exchange rate, ISSER’s call for intensified support in agriculture may offer a pathway to economic stability.

The think tank emphasizes that sustainable food pricing will ultimately bolster economic growth and improve living standards, creating a more secure environment for Ghana’s future.