Stories and facts

The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) is the main government agency responsible for collecting, analyzing, and sharing official statistics in Ghana.

It operates under the authority of the Presidency and plays a vital role in shaping national policies through accurate and reliable data.

One of its major responsibilities is conducting the Population and Housing Census, which provides essential information about the country’s population, housing conditions, and socio-economic situation.

This data helps guide decision-making, resource allocation, and development planning across various sectors.

The history of statistical work in Ghana dates back to 1891, when the first population census was conducted under British colonial administration.

These early efforts laid the foundation for the systematic collection and use of data in the country. In 1985, the Ghana Statistical Service was formally established as a Public Service institution under the Statistical Service Law 135 by the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC).

This law gave the Service legal authority to operate as an independent and professional body dedicated to ensuring the credibility and integrity of national statistics.

Over the years, the GSS has been led by distinguished statisticians who contributed significantly to its growth and modernization.

Dr. Grace Bediako served as Government Statistician from 2004 to 2013, during which she implemented key reforms and strengthened the Service’s institutional capacity.

She was succeeded by Dr. Philomena Nyarko, who led from 2013 to 2016 and continued efforts to improve data collection methods and promote the use of technology in statistical operations.

Today, the Ghana Statistical Service continues to be a cornerstone of national development, providing the data-driven insights needed to inform policy and advance Ghana’s progress.

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