Low inflation on paper, high cost of living: How Presidents Mahama and Trump are facing stark economic reality

Two United States presidents, Donald Trump and Mahama, have faced challenges despite reported low inflation rates. In the U.S., a recent AP-NORC poll revealed that 82% of Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of cost of living despite inflation being reported at 3.4%. Similarly, in Ghana, citizens complain about the discrepancy between the reported low inflation of around 5% and the steep rise in their daily expenses, including utility tariffs, fuel prices, rent, and goods and services.

Social media and on-the-ground reports in Ghana illustrate the growing frustration, with residents voicing concerns about rising electricity costs and general high prices. For instance, a Facebook post by Chris-Vincent Agyapong compared the printing costs of a book in China and Ghana, highlighting the economic disparity. Similarly, a supermarket shopper in Ghana lamented the rising total cost at the till, nearing their salary.

A video by content creator Ama Morton highlighted the exorbitant rent demands in Accra, while a viral post by blogger Ray Michael detailed the high cost of fufu and daily meals. Market women in Ghana also suffer from the lack of purchasing power, with produce rotting due to buyers' inability to afford goods. Traders at Makola and Kaneshie Market lament the spoilage of tomatoes, pepper, and plantains, attributing it to high transportation and rent costs, as well as buyers' inability to purchase goods due to their high prices.

Both Presidents Trump and Mahama have staged comebacks after their respective first terms, despite the economic hardship faced by their citizens.