Ghana to become Africa’s 8th biggest economy in 2026

Ghana will become the eighth biggest economy in Africa in 2026, with a projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$113.49 billion.

This will represent a moderate increase from its 2025 estimate of approximately $108.1 billion, reflecting a projected GDP growth rate of 4.8%.

Using multilateral economic data, the growth trajectory demonstrates steady performance despite challenges in public debt management and external vulnerabilities.

The country’s position highlights its resilience in combining natural resource wealth with expanding services and industrial sectors, maintaining one of the continent’s most stable macroeconomic frameworks.

Ghana’s economic composition is diversified relative to its West African peers. While gold and cocoa exports remain significant, the oil and gas sector has increasingly contributed to both GDP and fiscal revenue, stabilising earnings amid commodity price fluctuations.

Infrastructure investment, particularly in roads, ports, and energy projects, has improved logistics and reduced operational costs for businesses.

Meanwhile, South Africa will remain the biggest economy in Africa, with Egypt and Nigeria in 2^nd and 3^rd positions, respectively.

South Africa is projected to have a nominal GDP of $443.64 billion in 2026, building on its long‑standing role as the continent’s industrial and financial hub. This projection reflects an increase from its 2025 nominal GDP of approximately $426.38 billion.

On the other hand, Egypt is projected to record a nominal GDP of $399.51 billion in 2026. This projection represents a notable increase from its 2025 nominal GDP of approximately $349.26 billion.

Nigeria is also projected to achieve a nominal GDP of $334.34 billion in 2026. This figure marks a notable increase from its 2025 nominal GDP of approximately $285.00 billion, reflecting substantial growth in raw economic output year on year.