The Government has projected the creation of 800,000 new jobs in 2026, driven by massive infrastructure development, industrial expansion, and targeted support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
The announcement, made by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson in the presentation of the 2026 Budget Statement to Parliament, signals a strategic shift from economic recovery to inclusive transformation.
“The 2026 Budget is about turning stability into opportunity and opportunity into prosperity,” Dr. Forson said. “Every investment we make must translate into jobs and improved livelihoods.”
The budget identifies several key sectors for employment growth; which are The Big Push Infrastructure Programme, which is expected to create over 30,000 direct construction jobs and 100,000 indirect opportunities across allied industries, the 24-Hour Economy Programme, designed to stimulate around-the-clock business activity in manufacturing, logistics, and services, the Oil Palm Development Policy (2026–2032), which will generate 250,000 jobs across the agricultural value chain, and the establishment of three new garment factories and seven agro-processing plants, focusing on cashew, poultry, rice, and shea processing.
Dr. Forson said the job creation Ghana 2026 agenda places youth at its centre. The government will expand technical and vocational education and training (TVET), strengthen apprenticeship programmes, and integrate digital tools into skills development.
To further boost employment, the Development Bank Ghana and the Ghana EXIM Bank will offer low-interest financing to agro-processing, garment, and manufacturing firms with high job-creation potential.
“We are building an economy that produces more than it consumes,” Dr. Forson stressed. “Our goal is to make Ghana a hub of decent jobs, rising incomes, and shared prosperity.”
Through GH¢57.5 billion in capital investment, government aims to turn fiscal stability into tangible development. The projects, spanning roads, energy, water, and education will empower local contractors and support supply chains that employ thousands.
The Big Push Programme alone is expected to indirectly create jobs in cement, steel, and logistics sectors, while road construction and power projects will expand employment for artisans and engineers.
Government will work closely with private firms and labour groups to enhance productivity and support inclusive hiring. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) will be prioritised to accelerate delivery of infrastructure and industrial parks.
Dr. Forson reaffirmed government’s resolve, saying; “this is not a recovery budget. It’s a rebirth, one that creates jobs, boosts production, and uplifts every Ghanaian.”
