Ghana’s Multidimensional Poverty Rate Declines but Disparities Remain

A recent report indicates that Ghana’s multidimensional poverty rate has steadily decreased from 23.9% in the first quarter of 2025 to 21.9% by the third quarter. This report assesses poverty through four key indicators: health, living conditions, education, and employment, offering a more comprehensive view of poverty beyond mere income levels.

At the report’s launch in Accra this week, Senior Government Statistician Alhassan Iddrisu emphasized the progress made, while also highlighting significant regional disparities. “The Ashanti and Northern regions, despite recording poverty rates close to the national average, each accounted for more than one million multidimensionally poor persons due to their large populations,” Iddrisu stated.

To address these disparities, Iddrisu urged the government to take decisive action:

• Expand coverage of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS)
• Improve sanitation and living conditions
• Strengthen education initiatives and school feeding programs

These recommendations aim to bridge the gap in poverty alleviation efforts across different regions, ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need. The challenges posed by the Ashanti and Northern regions underline the importance of a targeted approach to development, enabling equitable opportunities for all Ghanaians.

As the government seeks to implement these measures, stakeholders and citizens alike will be keen to observe how these initiatives will unfold and their impact on the overall poverty landscape in Ghana.

The findings of this report not only shed light on the current state of poverty in Ghana but also serve as a call to action for policymakers, urging them to address the pressing needs of their populations in order to ensure sustainable progress.

Ghana stands at a critical juncture in its fight against multidimensional poverty. With strategic interventions, there is hope to elevate the living conditions and opportunities for all its citizens, contributing to a more equitable society.

By Omer Aden
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.