A new nationwide survey suggests Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama retains strong public backing one year into his presidency, even as citizens voice deep unease over rising living costs.
The poll, conducted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) in December 2025 and released on 11 February 2026, found that 68% of Ghanaians approve of Mr. Mahama’s performance. Just over one in five (22%) disapprove, while 10% offered no opinion.
“Public support for President John Mahama is high, with a 68% job approval rating,” the IEA report said.
But the survey also highlights widespread anxiety about the economy. Seven in ten respondents (71%) said they were strongly concerned about the price of food and consumer goods, with another 20% somewhat concerned. In total, nine out of ten expressed at least some level of worry about rising prices.
Unemployment was identified as the most pressing national issue, cited by 46% of respondents. Illegal mining known locally as galamsey followed at 30%, reflecting fears over environmental damage and water pollution. Corruption (9%) and the general state of the economy (8%) were also mentioned.
Mr Mahama took office on 7 January 2025, promising to steer Ghana through a period marked by high debt, currency depreciation, inflation and joblessness. The IEA noted that while some economic indicators appear to be improving, “significant socioeconomic challenges remain.”
The institute concluded that Ghanaians remain hopeful about the president’s leadership but are acutely aware of the structural problems that demand urgent attention.
