Food prices across Ghana remained largely stable in August 2026 compared to the previous month, according to the latest Food Security Monitor report from AGRA. This stability was observed despite an 8.9% month-on-month increase in the national average price of white maize.
The AGRA report, released in September 2026, detailed that overall food price conditions stayed relatively unchanged from July. While rice and sorghum prices held steady, the notable rise in maize prices suggests some market tightening for this key staple. This indicates a mixed picture for household food budgets across the country.
This stability in overall food prices offers some relief amid broader economic pressures facing Ghanaian households. The country has been grappling with persistent inflation and currency depreciation, making the cost of living a significant concern. Stable food prices, particularly for essential commodities, can help cushion consumers against these wider economic challenges.
The report noted that the national average price of rice remained stable at GHS 11,100 per metric tonne, showing no change from July. AGRA stated, “Prices were slightly higher than three months earlier (+0.9%) but remained 10.1% below six-month levels and 16.4% lower than a year earlier, reflecting adequate domestic and imported rice supplies.” This suggests that Ghana's rice supply chain has been robust enough to prevent price hikes.
Sorghum prices also showed stability, with the national average price unchanged at GHS 5,833 per metric tonne. The report highlighted that sorghum prices were 1.2% lower than three months ago and 10.3% below six-month levels. This indicates improved market supplies for sorghum compared to earlier in 2026. However, sorghum prices were still 2.9% higher than a year earlier, suggesting some underlying firmness in the market.
In contrast, the national average price of white maize increased by 8.9% month-on-month, reaching GHS 3,141 per metric tonne. Despite this recent jump, maize prices remained 8.9% lower than six months ago and a significant 36.3% below year-earlier levels. This suggests that while there was a recent price increase, overall supply conditions for maize are still more favourable than they were in 2025.
Beyond food, the AGRA report also highlighted rising fuel costs in Ghana during August. Petrol prices increased by 3% and diesel prices by 1% compared to July. These increases mean petrol and diesel prices stood 29% and 19% above March 2026 levels, respectively. This sustained upward pressure in the domestic fuel market will likely impact transportation costs and, indirectly, the prices of other goods and services.
Regionally, the report observed that first-season maize production in West and Central Africa has generally remained near average. However, agricultural conditions remain fragile in several countries due to variable rainfall and localized moisture deficits. This regional fragility could pose future risks to Ghana's food security if cross-border trade is affected.
Globally, August 2026 saw rising food and agricultural commodity prices. This was driven by tightening global supply conditions, strong demand, weather-related production concerns, and trade disruptions. Reduced production forecasts for 2026/27 due to adverse weather, especially in Europe, and disruptions to Black Sea exports contributed to upward pressure on global grain prices.
Looking ahead, the AGRA report cautioned about a powerful El Niño event developing in the Pacific Ocean. This event is projected to become one of the strongest on record during the 2026/27 season. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimates a greater than 90% probability of its continuation. This significantly increases climate-related risks across Africa, underscoring the need for early preparedness and climate adaptation measures to protect food security.