The Northern Region has recorded the lowest entrepreneurship freedom score in Ghana, dropping from 4.29 out of 10 in 2024 to 2.79 in 2026, according to the 2026 Regional Entrepreneurship Freedom (REF) Index.
The decline places the region 16th among Ghana’s 16 regions, highlighting growing constraints on businesses and entrepreneurs operating in the region.
The findings were presented at a dissemination meeting organised by the African Centre for Youth and Entrepreneurship (ACEYE) in collaboration with the Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC) in Tamale on Friday, September 11, 2026.
The report identified policy gaps, institutional conditions and other barriers affecting the ability of individuals and businesses to establish, operate and expand sustainable enterprises.
Participants at the meeting cited high utility costs and multiple taxation among the challenges undermining the business environment in the region.
The Acting Chief Director of the NRCC, Sumaila Ewuntomah Abudu, said the findings should inform efforts to improve the business environment and create conditions that enable entrepreneurs to thrive.
An ACEYE representative, Emmanuel Acquah, who presented the report, said the findings offered evidence on the opportunities and constraints shaping entrepreneurship in the Northern Region.
The report is expected to serve as a reference for regional planning, investment promotion, entrepreneurship development and employment creation, with particular attention to women and young people.
Stakeholders called for stronger institutional collaboration and practical measures to remove barriers confronting businesses and improve the region’s capacity to attract investment and support private-sector growth.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
