GSS Launches National In‑Depth Business Data Collection After Nationwide Training

Accra, June 10, 2025 – The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has officially launched Phase II of its Integrated Business Establishment Survey (IBES II), marking a pivotal effort to deepen economic data gathering across the nation. This follows the successful completion of a comprehensive Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop in Winneba, where approximately 300 potential trainers participated in a 21-day intensive program

???? Training the Trainers

From the cohort of 300, 250 candidates have been selected to serve as trainers who will prepare over 3,200 field officers for the national data collection exercise spanning all 16 regions of Ghan The ToT involved:

• 21 days of instruction in survey methodology

• Technical preparations covering digital tools and quality assurance protocols

• Planning for supervisory and logistical responsibilities across field teams

National Rollout: Digital & Inclusive

Field deployment began mid‑June and will continue through early July, heading into an extensive survey phase running to September 10,1. This survey targets 44,652 scientifically sampled business establishments, across 101 economic categories, using both digital (CAPI via Survey Solutions) and paper backup systems7. Plans are already in place to publish initial findings by December 31, 2025

Strategic Objectives

The comprehensive data collection has multiple aims:

• Rebasing macroeconomic indicators – population, GDP, Producer Price Index, Industrial Production Index

• Enabling targeted policy and investment decisions, reflecting true regional and business-sector dynamics

• Supporting key national initiatives, such as the 24‑Hour Economy plan, by generating insights on business productivity, innovation, and capital formation

According to Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, this will elevate GSS from a data compiler to a driver of actionable insights: “The data we gather through IBES II will serve multiple critical purposes… inform national development planning

Nationwide Collaboration & Impact

The success of IBES II relies heavily on collaboration. GSS has urged sampled businesses and the broader private sector, along with ministries and regulatory bodies, to “fully collaborate”—emphasizing the survey’s national importance: “This data is not just for the government, it is for Ghana”

Looking Forward

With field operations underway, the GSS is set to produce a series of detailed reports encompassing:

• Business operations and regional productivity trends

• Sector-specific challenges and innovation practices

• District-level business insights, where statistically feasible

These findings will significantly enhance evidence-based policymaking, business planning, and investment attraction, shaping Ghana’s growth trajectory through 2026 and beyond.

???? Ready for the Next Steps?

Let me know if you'd like help analyzing expected impacts, comparing the survey design to similar exercises in other countries, or visualizing the data rollout timeline for stakeholders.