The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) has raised concerns over the slow pace of activity under the government's ‘Big Push’ infrastructure programme, noting that construction growth remains subdued despite the ambitious initiative.

Presenting ISSER's review of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget, the Director of the Institute, Professor Robert Darko Osei, said the latest economic data suggest many of the flagship infrastructure projects are yet to translate into measurable economic activity.

According to the Institute, the construction sector grew by just 1.3% in the first quarter of 2026, even as the government continues to tout the Big Push as a key driver of economic transformation.

"Construction grew by only 1.3% in 2026 Q1 despite the Government's Big Push Infrastructure Programme. This suggests that many projects may be at the preparatory or early implementation stages, and hence, have not yet translated into stronger measured construction growth."

ISSER also attributed the weak performance to the government's continued fiscal restraint, arguing that sharp reductions in capital expenditure have constrained infrastructure spending.

"It also reflects the tight fiscal policy stance of the government (CAPEX decline was massive). Government is maintaining tight expenditure controls with no supplementary appropriation."

The Institute noted that while fiscal consolidation has helped restore macroeconomic stability, sustaining growth will require greater investment in productive infrastructure.

Earlier in the presentation, ISSER observed that capital expenditure in the first half of 2026 was 41 percent below target, raising concerns about whether expenditure cuts are slowing the implementation of major development projects.

Professor Osei said maintaining fiscal discipline is important, but stressed that the government must ensure infrastructure investment gathers pace to support economic growth, create jobs and improve productivity across the economy.