President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched Ghana’s ambitious 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme, a flagship policy expected to generate 1.7 million jobs over the next four years through a nationwide shift-based production model.
The initiative, launched at Jubilee House in Accra, seeks to promote continuous economic activity in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, and services.
It forms a central pillar of the government’s strategy to boost productivity, expand export capacity, and address growing youth unemployment.
The 24-Hour Economy Policy promotes around-the-clock business operations through shift-based systems, particularly in high-employment sectors.
Companies adopting this model will receive incentives such as tax reliefs, reliable power supply, and strengthened security.
The policy is structured around eight sub-programmes like Grow24 for agriculture, Make24 for manufacturing, and Connect24 for logistics, complemented by digitalisation, access to financing, and reforms to boost public sector efficiency and national productivity.
Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy, Goosie Tanoh, submitted the policy framework to Speaker Alban Bagbin, who urged Parliament to give it legislative backing to ensure continuity beyond the current administration.
“This policy is not just about longer working hours. It’s about transforming our economic model to create jobs, improve productivity, and attract investments,” said President Mahama.
According to the government, the programme could boost Ghana’s real GDP growth by over 30% in the next decade, with immediate employment impacts in agro-processing, textiles, warehousing, health services, and public transport.
Already, Parliament has extended its own operating hours as a signal of institutional alignment.
Initial funding of $300–$400 million has been earmarked to support implementation, within a broader $4 billion programme framework designed to crowd in private sector investment.
The 24-Hour Economy Policy is projected to generate 1.7 million new jobs by 2029 by driving continuous productivity across key sectors.
An upcoming 24-Hour Economy Bill is anticipated to provide the legal backing for its implementation.
Success will hinge on strong private sector participation, which is essential for widespread adoption and impact.
A National Secretariat will oversee implementation, monitor compliance, and coordinate incentives. Sector-specific rollouts will follow, beginning with manufacturing, health, and transport hubs.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
