Ghana staple food prices remain stable amid rising fuel costs

According to the August 2026 AGRA Food Security Monitor, staple food prices in Ghana remained largely stable in August, providing a buffer against headline inflation. While headline inflation rose to 5.0%, food inflation eased slightly to 3.0% due to lower annual food-price bases.

National average prices for rice remained unchanged at GH¢11,100 per metric tonne, which is 16.4% lower than the previous year. Sorghum prices also held steady at GH¢5,833 per tonne. Although white maize prices saw a month-on-month increase of 8.9% to GH¢3,141 per tonne, they remained 36.3% cheaper than the same period last year.

However, this stability faces potential risks from rising energy costs. Petrol and diesel prices increased in August, with petrol up 3% and diesel up 1% compared to July. Further expected increases in pump prices from September 16 may drive up transport, freight, and production costs, potentially offsetting the relief provided by cheaper staples.