Ghana's population projected to reach 34.4 million in 2026

Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development and data-driven governance at a United Nations dialogue on population, technology, research, and sustainable development. Speaking at the 59th Session of the Commission on Population and Development CPD59 on April 13, 2025, the Executive Director of the National Population Council, Angelina Osei Kodua-Nyanor, stated that Ghana's population is projected to reach 34.4 million in 2026, growing at an annual rate of 2.1 percent. She noted that the population remains predominantly youthful, with 12.6 million people aged 15 to 35, while the proportion of older persons is rising, now at 6.5 percent. Kodua-Nyanor emphasized the importance of harnessing the demographic dividend and ensuring dignity and well-being across all age groups as central to Ghana’s national development agenda. She highlighted Ghana's sustained investments in strengthening its population data ecosystem, including modernizing data production through digital census operations and advanced analytics under the Ghana Statistical Service. Integrated administrative systems, such as the national identification platform, are enhancing interoperability and improving the accuracy and timeliness of population statistics. The country is also advancing age-responsive policies, citing the National Ageing Policy and social protection programs like LEAP, which provide income support and health insurance to vulnerable older persons through biometric and digital payment