Ghana’s inflation rate for September 2024 surged to 21.5 per cent, marking an increase from the 20.4 per cent recorded in August, according to the latest figures from the Ghana Statistical Service.

This rise ends a five-month trend of declining inflation, largely driven by a sharp spike in food prices.

Food inflation experienced a significant leap, rising from 19.1 per cent in August to 22.1 per cent in September. In contrast, non-food inflation saw a slight dip, easing to 20.9 per cent from 21.5 per cent the previous month.

Government Statistician, Professor Samuel Kobina Anim, acknowledged the reversal in the inflation trajectory and warned of potential risks moving forward.

"This five-month successive decrease in the rate of inflation has been reversed in September, with food recording a higher rate,” Prof. Anim said while presenting the data.

The report also showed an increase in inflation for both locally produced and imported goods. Imported goods inflation rose to 17.0 per cent, up from 16.1 per cent in August, while locally produced items saw inflation climb to 23.4 per cent, compared to 22.2 per cent the previous month.

Among the hardest-hit sectors, restaurants and accommodation services recorded the highest inflation at 27.9 per cent, followed closely by alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and narcotics at 27.6 per cent.

Housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels registered 26.4 per cent inflation, while education services reached 23.7 per cent.

Health services reported an inflation rate of 22.3 per cent, with food and non-alcoholic beverages standing at 22.1 per cent.