New data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) paints a nuanced picture of citizens’ interactions with public officials in the first half of 2025.
The Governance Series Wave Two report reveals that 14.3 percent of respondents admitted giving a gift or money to a public official between January and June 2025, down from 18.4 percent in the previous survey.
While the overall decline is encouraging, the report highlights a concerning trend: repeat giving has surged. The share of people who reported giving gifts five or more times rose sharply from 6.9 percent to 24 percent.
Government statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu emphasized that the Governance Series provides timely, citizen-centered data that can inform reforms. He urged policymakers to use the evidence to strengthen public trust and improve service delivery.
The report notes that money remains the most common form of gift, with more than half of those who gave reporting amounts of 100 Ghana cedis or less. Direct requests from officials fell from 51.3 percent to 38.6 percent, while voluntary gifts offered as tokens of appreciation nearly doubled from 17.6 percent to 32.9 percent. Reporting of bribery incidents to official or informal channels also declined.
Frontline services continue to register the highest incidence of informal payments, with the Motor Traffic and Transport Division (MTTD) of the Police Service remaining the agency most frequently associated with gifts or bribes, though the share decreased from 61 percent to 51.9 percent. These figures highlight the ongoing need for stronger oversight and more effective complaint mechanisms.
The report also records positive trends in civic inclusion. The proportion of Ghanaians who feel ordinary people can influence public decision-making rose from 54.8 percent to 68.4 percent, while those who feel completely excluded fell from 42.4 percent to 29.2 percent. Gains were strongest among young people aged 18 to 24, seniors aged 65 and above, and persons facing difficulties in performing daily activities.
However, regional disparities persist. The North East, Upper East, and Northern regions continue to report the highest perceptions of exclusion.
The Governance Series Wave Two contributes to national monitoring of Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions. By tracking bribery, citizen participation, and inclusion, the data offers a practical tool for government, civil society, and development partners to target interventions aimed at reducing petty corruption and expanding civic engagement.
GSS encourages researchers, policymakers, and the public to consult the full report at www.statsghana.gov.gh for complete tables, regional breakdowns, and methodology.
The findings reflect progress in several areas, yet underline persistent challenges that require coordinated action if Ghana is to curb informal payments and strengthen trust in public institutions.
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