The implementation of Ghana’s 24-hour economy policy has sparked a debate, with Ekow Vincent Assafuah, Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, arguing that its success hinges on the government creating a conducive environment for businesses rather than imposing the policy. Assafuah contends that the current administration, led by John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has launched the initiative without a well-defined roadmap, thereby jeopardizing its potential impact. He criticizes the government’s failure to deliver on its campaign promise of providing one job for every three people under the 24-hour economy framework. Assafuah questions the government’s commitment to the policy, highlighting the absence of tangible progress and budgetary allocations nine months into its implementation, and challenges the feasibility of the “one job for three people” pledge.
The core of Assafuah’s argument revolves around the importance of creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, which he believes is a prerequisite for the success of the 24-hour economy. He argues that simply mandating businesses to operate around the clock is insufficient and that the government needs to implement sound policies that support the private sector. He draws a parallel with the existing shift system in hospitals, emphasizing that it functions effectively because the system facilitates it, not because it’s imposed by the government. Assafuah suggests that without such a supportive framework, even extending the timeframe for implementation wouldn’t guarantee the policy’s success. He stresses the need for a more organic approach, driven by private sector growth and facilitated by government policies.
The 24-hour economy policy, officially launched by President John Mahama on July 2, 2025, aims to stimulate economic activity by encouraging businesses to operate around the clock. The intended outcomes include increased productivity, job creation, expanded exports, and overall economic stability. However, the policy has faced criticism due to what some perceive as a lack of clear direction and concrete implementation strategies. The government’s emphasis on creating jobs through this initiative has been particularly scrutinized, with critics questioning the feasibility and the actual impact on employment figures. The debate highlights the tension between government-led initiatives and the need for private sector-driven growth.
Assafuah’s critique raises fundamental questions about the government’s approach to economic policy. Is the 24-hour economy a viable solution for Ghana’s economic challenges, or is it a poorly conceived initiative destined for failure? Can simply mandating businesses to operate 24/7 achieve the desired outcomes without addressing the underlying structural issues that hinder private sector growth? These questions point to a larger debate about the role of government in promoting economic development. Should the government focus on creating an enabling environment for businesses to flourish, or should it take a more interventionist approach by dictating operational hours and employment targets?
The success of the 24-hour economy ultimately depends on the government’s ability to strike a balance between policy direction and private sector autonomy. While the initiative has the potential to boost economic activity, its effectiveness hinges on creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. This requires more than just a government decree; it necessitates a comprehensive strategy that addresses the challenges faced by businesses, including access to finance, infrastructure development, and regulatory reforms. Furthermore, the government needs to ensure that the policy is inclusive and benefits all segments of society, not just a select few.
The 24-hour economy represents a bold experiment in economic policy, but its success is far from guaranteed. The government must move beyond mere rhetoric and demonstrate a tangible commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses. This includes engaging in meaningful dialogue with the private sector, addressing their concerns, and implementing policies that foster sustainable growth. Only then can the 24-hour economy truly fulfill its potential and contribute to Ghana’s economic prosperity. The debate surrounding the policy underscores the importance of careful planning, effective implementation, and a clear understanding of the dynamics between government intervention and private sector-led growth.
