Society in Ghana
An overview of key social indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.
Explore Social Domains
Demographics
Public Health
Education & Human Capital
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Current Social Overview of Ghana
A summary based on key social and demographic indicators.
- Ghana has an estimated population of 33.8M2023A steady annual growth rate of 1.9%2023supports sustained population expansion, providing a stable base for economic development. With a fertility rate of 3.4 births per woman2023, the population maintains momentum, necessitating strategic investments in social infrastructure. Net emigration is relatively minor, impacting the population by approximately 13K individuals annually (or -0.4 per 1,000 inhabitants)2024.
- Regarding public health, Healthcare outcomes show foundational progress with a life expectancy of 65.5 years2023, yet significant disparities or developmental gaps may still exist. Concurrently, Healthcare delivery faces significant systemic challenges, as evidenced by elevated child mortality (under 5 years) (37.1 per 1,000 live births2023and maternal mortality (234 per 100,000 live births2023) rates, suggesting areas for critical intervention and resource allocation. These outcomes are supported by limited healthcare spending, at 3.7% of GDP2022, which may constrain comprehensive health system improvements and the attainment of higher health outcomes.
- Educational progress is reflected in a literacy rate of 80%2020, though continued efforts are needed to achieve universal literacy and enhance foundational skills. Complementing this, educational access shows solid progress through 86% primary enrollment2019and 77% secondary participation rates2022. This educational framework is supported by limited educational investment, at 2.9% of GDP2022, which may constrain the scale and quality of future human capital development initiatives.
- In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, a still balanced urban-rural distribution (59% urban population2023) creates diverse economic opportunities but necessitates coordinated infrastructure development to bridge potential disparities. Furthermore, basic infrastructure coverage includes 90% electricity access2023. However, digital connectivity at {currentInternet}% internet penetration2023indicates significant opportunities for further digital transformation and economic inclusion.
Key Development Insights
Population Dynamics
A youthful, rapidly growing population presents a "demographic dividend" opportunity if met with sufficient investment in jobs and services.
Public Health System
Addressing critical gaps in the healthcare system is essential to improve lagging indicators like life expectancy and maternal mortality.
Human Capital Formation
Educational attainment is a direct driver of economic innovation and global competitiveness. Investment in education is key to unlocking human potential.
Infrastructure & Connectivity
Infrastructure shapes economic efficiency, urbanization patterns, and digital integration, being critical for modern economies.
More About This Country
Neighbors & Regional Peers
Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.