The World Bank Group in Ghana, Fiscal Years 2013–23 - Country Program Evaluation

Overview & Synopsis

This Country Program Evaluation assesses the relevance, effectiveness, coherence, and sustainability of World Bank Group engagement in Ghana during fiscal years 2013–23, covering the FY2013–16 Country Partnership Strategy, its extension through FY2018, and the FY2022–26 Country Partnership Framework. Using a theory-based contribution analysis and mixed methods—including literature reviews, stakeholder interviews, a review of 348 operations, theories of change, statistical analysis, and development partner financing data—the evaluation examines support for fiscal and debt sustainability, energy sector transformation, and education and skills development. The Bank Group’s strategies were broadly relevant and adaptable, and its substantial engagement contributed to expanded electricity and education access, Ghana’s emergence as a gas producer and regional energy exporter, and timely financing and policy dialogue during periods of mounting debt distress. However, insufficient prioritization, overly optimistic diagnostics, and limited strategic reflection weakened the response to worsening macroeconomic risks. Long-standing governance and financial viability problems in the energy sector remained unresolved and contributed to fiscal pressures. In education, wider access was not matched by stronger learning outcomes or reduced inequality, while broad engagement across subsectors diluted impact in foundational areas. Overall, the Bank Group remained a trusted adviser and achieved important sectoral results, but it was less effective in addressing politically sensitive governance constraints and interconnected systemic risks. The evaluation highlights the need for greater selectivity, candid risk assessment, sustained attention to institutional reform, and stronger links across fiscal, energy, and education interventions.