Ghana stands at a crossroads. Recent protests and citizen frustrations reveal what can happen when leaders underestimate the power of a disillusioned populace. An Afrobarometer survey paints a stark picture of citizen priorities.

Listen to this article 13 min Listen to this article 13 min As Ghana hurtles towards another crucial election, the findings of Afrobarometer's Round 10 survey serve as a pressing call to action. These results are not just a snapshot of current concerns but a vital diagnostic tool for understanding a nation's pulse. From the pressing issue of unemployment to the dire need for improved infrastructure and accessible healthcare, the survey paints a stark picture of citizen priorities, underscoring the urgent need for political leaders to act.

According to the Afrobarometer's Round 10 survey, 41% of Ghanaians identified unemployment as their top concern, followed by infrastructure (38%) and health (33%). This marks a consistent trend over the years, with job creation topping the list since 2008. Ghanaians are saying loud and clear: they want jobs, better roads, and accessible healthcare. The more interesting question, however, is whether these concerns will be met with substantive action by winners of the upcoming election, or whether the broad claims to address these issues in party manifestos will once again reduce politics to hollow promises. However, beneath these headline figures lies a nuanced story.

Unemployment, while often framed as an economic metric, has...