Ghana’s unemployment rate fell slightly at the end of 2024, but youth joblessness continues to pose a major challenge, according to new data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).

Figures released on Thursday showed that the national unemployment rate declined from 13.3% in the third quarter of 2024 to 13.1% in the fourth quarter, based on surveys of more than 9,000 households.

Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, described the decline as a modest sign of progress but warned that it masks persistent economic distress.

“In 2024, youth unemployment remains alarmingly high at 22.5% for ages 15 to 35 and 32% for ages 15 to 24. This highlights the urgent need for expanded and more focused labour market practices, such as retraining and re-skilling programmes, to combat skills mismatch and boost employability,” he told reporters.