2027 Budget: 71% want jobs and youth employment prioritised – KPMG/UNDP survey

A recent survey by KPMG and UNDP reveals that 71% of Ghanaians prioritize jobs and youth employment in the 2027 Budget. The poll, which also surveyed businesses and included focus groups, was released just ahead of Finance Minister Ato Forson's budget presentation at 6pm on Thursday.

When it comes to tax matters, 90% of respondents called for advance notice of changes to help with planning. According to the report, complicated filing procedures, multiple payments to different authorities, and short notice announcements are seen as the biggest obstacles. To encourage informal businesses to enter the formal sector, the most preferred methods were increasing outreach and education, offering incentives for registration, and linking business licensing with tax sign-up.

Businesses are generally optimistic about growth in 2027, with 70% confident, but cite access to suitable finance, reliable utilities, and market demand as ongoing challenges. Power supply reliability received a low rating, with only 36% considering it very or fairly steady. Investment and expansion under the 24-Hour Economy program was conditional, with 32% willing to invest or expand, but 44% only willing with suitable incentives or conditions.

The report urges both the 24-Hour Economy program and the New Economy agenda to be converted into real investment. The budget cycle begins with real GDP up 6.2% in the first half of 2026 and October inflation at 5.5%. The evening budget announcement has already sparked debate in Parliament, with the Minority questioning the 6pm slot while the Majority defends it.