By Leo Nelson
President John Dramani Mahama has described the proposed 24-hour economy policy as a flagship strategy under his government’s broader economic transformation agenda aimed at boosting productivity, creating jobs and accelerating national growth.
According to the President, the policy is designed to maximise the productive use of the country’s human and industrial resources by encouraging businesses and public institutions to operate in shifts around the clock.
Speaking at the National “Resetting Ghana” Citizen Engagement Forum in Koforidua, Mahama said the initiative would open up employment opportunities for thousands of young people while improving efficiency across key sectors of the economy.
“The 24-hour economy is not merely a slogan but a carefully thought-out national growth strategy intended to expand economic activity beyond the traditional working hours,” he stressed.
President Mahama explained that the policy would focus heavily on manufacturing, agro-processing, transportation, logistics, health care, security services and other strategic sectors capable of sustaining continuous operations.
He noted that Ghana’s growing youth population required bold and innovative economic interventions capable of generating sustainable jobs and stimulating local enterprise development.
“The future of our country depends on how effectively we utilise our resources and create opportunities for our people. A 24-hour economy will ensure that our factories, ports, markets and businesses continue to work for national development day and night,” he stated.
Mahama said the policy would also help improve productivity, increase exports and attract foreign direct investment by creating a more competitive business environment.
He assured the private sector that government would work closely with industry players, labour unions and financial institutions to create the enabling environment needed for the successful implementation of the programme.
The President further disclosed that investments in energy supply, transport infrastructure, digital systems and public security would form part of measures to support the smooth operation of the 24-hour economy policy.
Economic analysts have described the initiative as one of the most ambitious job-creation and industrialisation proposals in recent years, with expectations that it could significantly expand Ghana’s economic base if effectively implemented.
President Mahama reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and economic empowerment, stressing that the policy would help reposition Ghana as a competitive investment destination within the West African sub-region.