1 in 6 Ghanaians paid bribes to public officials in 2024 – GSS report

The report highlights how bribery affects vulnerable groups disproportionately.

Most people who admitted to paying bribes were employed (75.6%). However, the unemployed faced a heavier burden relative to their situation.

A notable 22.4% of unemployed respondents paid over GH¢1,000 in bribes. This raises concerns about fairness and access to public services.

People with disabilities also experienced high levels of corruption. About 21% of respondents with disabilities reported paying bribes. The rate was even higher for those with physical impairments (40.1%) and visual disabilities (32.5%).

These findings indicate systemic inequalities that limit access to public services.

Bribery took various forms beyond cash payments. While cash made up 85.2%, other inducements included food, drinks, animals (9%), and favours or services (4.4%).

Many respondents reported paying between GH¢101 and GH¢500 in bribes. Additionally, 14% admitted to paying more than GH¢1,000.

Interestingly, nearly one in five bribes (17.3%) were offered voluntarily. These were given either to speed up service or as a gesture of appreciation.

However, only 14.5% formally reported these incidents, indicating low public confidence in grievance mechanisms or fear of retaliation.

The GSS aims for the bi-annual Governance Series to track bribery trends over time. This will help guide reforms as Ghana prepares for its third Voluntary National Review of the Sustainable Development Goals in July 2025.