Paragraph 1: The Launch of a National Economic Undertaking
The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) embarked on a significant national endeavor with the launch of the Integrated Business Establishment Survey Phase II (IBES II). This ambitious survey, the fifth of its kind in Ghana’s history, aims to collect comprehensive economic data from a representative sample of 45,000 establishments, drawn from a pool of 1.86 million businesses nationwide. The official launch of the data collection phase, following a rigorous training program for field officers, took place on July 2, 2025, at Zenith University College, Accra. This event marked a crucial step in a process designed to provide a detailed snapshot of the Ghanaian economy.
Paragraph 2: The Importance of IBES II for National Development
The IBES II is not merely a data collection exercise; it’s a critical component of national planning and economic development. The data gathered will be instrumental in rebasing Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), providing a more accurate reflection of the country’s economic output. It will also inform updates to the Producer Price Index (PPI) and the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), offering valuable insights into price fluctuations and industrial activity. Furthermore, the survey will shed light on the dynamics of production across different sectors, enabling policymakers to better understand the challenges and opportunities faced by businesses, from large corporations to small enterprises. This understanding is crucial for fostering a thriving business environment and driving economic growth.
Paragraph 3: Preparing the Field Officers: Rigorous Training and Selection
The success of the IBES II hinges on the quality of data collected, and this relies heavily on the competence of the field officers. Over 3,000 applicants from across the country participated in a rigorous selection process, which included interviews at the regional level. The selected trainees then underwent an intensive 21-day training program. This program covered the intricacies of the IBES II questionnaires and involved practical sessions to equip the trainees with the necessary skills for effective field work. The training emphasized data quality, ethical conduct, and the importance of maintaining confidentiality. Ultimately, around 2,600 of the most qualified trainees will be deployed to collect data in the field, their selection based strictly on performance assessments and field practice.
Paragraph 4: Ensuring Data Integrity and Maintaining Confidentiality
The GSS has implemented stringent measures to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the data collected. Dr. Anthony Krakah, the National IBES Coordinator, highlighted the use of technology for real-time data monitoring. This technology allows for the identification of outliers and the prompt correction of errors in the field. Dr. Krakah also stressed the severe consequences of data falsification, emphasizing that it constitutes a criminal offense. Furthermore, Dr. Johnson Owusu Kegya, Director of Business, Trade & Industry Directorate, emphasized the paramount importance of data credibility, security, and confidentiality. He urged field officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and discipline throughout the data collection process.
Paragraph 5: The Scope and Regional Impact of IBES II
The IBES II is a nationwide undertaking, encompassing all regions of Ghana. Mr. Bawa Abdul-Kadir, the Upper East Regional Statistician, provided a regional perspective on the survey’s significance. In the Upper East Region alone, the survey will cover approximately 2,511 businesses. He underscored the importance of the data in measuring each region’s contribution to the national economy, identifying challenges faced by businesses, and assessing the impact of industrial operations on the environment. Mr. Abdul-Kadir reassured the business community that field officers are bound by an oath of secrecy, ensuring the confidentiality of all information provided. He also informed the public about the identification procedures for field officers, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Paragraph 6: Feedback from Trainees and the Road Ahead
Feedback from the trainees underscored the effectiveness of the training program. Fuseini Dokurugu, an Acting Center Lead, praised the comprehensive nature of the training, expressing confidence in the trainees’ ability to apply their newly acquired knowledge in the field. He highlighted the emphasis on data accuracy, confidentiality, and mock interviews as crucial elements of the training. The data collection phase is scheduled to commence on July 10, 2025, with the GSS, supported by partners like the World Bank, fully committed to the successful completion of the IBES II by November 2025. This comprehensive survey promises to provide invaluable insights into the Ghanaian economy, laying the groundwork for informed policy decisions and sustainable economic growth.
