Eight Ghanaian regions exceeded the 23% national inflation average in November 2024, led by Upper East at 44.9%, driven by soaring food prices and economic disparities
Eight regions in Ghana recorded inflation rates above the national average of 23% in November 2024, with the Upper East Region leading at an alarming 44.9%, the highest in the country.
This trend sighted by Brand Focus Africa reflects the economic disparities across the regions as the festive season approaches, potentially dampening Christmas celebrations for households struggling with the rising cost of living.
The Savannah Region recorded the second-highest inflation at 34.0%, followed by the Upper West Region at 30.4%. Other regions with inflation above the national average include:
- Northern Region (26.5%)
- Western North (25.6%)
- Bono East (25.4%)
- Ashanti Region (24.7%)
- Central Region (23.4%)
Food inflation remains a significant driver of the rising cost of living in many of these regions. The Savannah Region recorded the highest food inflation rate of 46.0%. The Upper East and Upper West regions, which are heavily reliant on subsistence agriculture, followed closely with food inflation rates of 43.7% each. Bono East recorded 33.7%, while Western North and Ashanti posted 27.9% and 26.7%, respectively.
The situation is particularly concerning in the Upper East, where food inflation compounds the region’s already high overall inflation, recorded at a staggering 44.9%.
Known for its reliance on agriculture, the region is home to crops like millet, sorghum, maize, and rice. As the festive season approaches, the high cost of living in the Upper East could dampen the usual Christmas cheer for many families, forcing them to prioritize basic needs over celebrations.
In contrast, eight regions recorded inflation below the national average, with the Eastern Region posting the lowest rate at 18.7%, followed by the Volta Region (19.0%), Oti Region (21.0%), and others.
As the holiday season draws closer, the impact of inflation remains a significant concern for many households, with regions like the Upper East feeling the brunt of the economic strain.
