Ghanaian actor and staunch New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporter, Prince David Osei, has publicly voiced his discontent with the persistent power outages plaguing the nation. His social media post on April 29th, 2024, directly challenged the feasibility of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s proposed 24-hour economy initiative, championed by former President John Mahama. Osei’s skepticism stems from the stark reality of Ghana’s unreliable power supply, which he argues renders the concept of a round-the-clock economy a mere fantasy. He pointedly questioned how such an ambitious plan could be achieved when even a consistent 10-hour supply of electricity remains elusive. His post concluded with a call to action, urging an end to the debilitating power cuts, commonly known as “dumsor,” using the hashtag #stopdumsornow. This highlights the actor’s belief that a stable and reliable electricity supply is a fundamental prerequisite for any meaningful discussion of a 24-hour economy.
The NDC’s proposed 24-hour economy model envisions a significant expansion of economic activities by extending the operational hours of businesses and services throughout the night and into the early morning. This model aims to create a more dynamic and flexible economy, catering to the diverse needs of citizens and providing increased opportunities for employment. Proponents argue that such a system would benefit both consumers and workers, allowing for greater convenience and access to goods and services while simultaneously generating new jobs for those willing to work non-traditional hours. The NDC posits that a 24-hour economy could stimulate economic growth and enhance Ghana’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.
However, Osei’s critique underscores a critical challenge facing the implementation of this vision: the unreliability of Ghana’s power infrastructure. The frequent power outages, commonly referred to as “dumsor,” pose a significant obstacle to the smooth operation of businesses and industries, often leading to disruptions in production, loss of revenue, and damage to equipment. The unpredictable nature of the power supply makes it difficult for businesses to plan and invest, hindering their ability to operate efficiently and effectively. This instability in the power sector raises serious doubts about the feasibility of a 24-hour economy, which inherently relies on a continuous and uninterrupted supply of electricity.
The government, in its efforts to promote economic growth and modernization, has announced plans to incentivize businesses and industries that adopt the 24-hour economy model. These incentives include reduced electricity tariffs and other forms of financial and logistical support. The government’s aim is to create a conducive environment for businesses to extend their operational hours, thereby boosting economic activity and creating new employment opportunities. However, the success of these initiatives hinges on addressing the fundamental issue of power supply reliability. Without a stable and consistent source of electricity, the benefits of a 24-hour economy will remain largely unattainable.
Osei’s public expression of frustration reflects a broader concern among Ghanaians about the recurring power outages and their impact on the nation’s economic prospects. The “dumsor” crisis has been a persistent challenge for successive governments, impacting businesses, households, and essential services. The frequent power cuts disrupt daily life, hindering productivity, and undermining investor confidence. For a 24-hour economy to become a reality, addressing the root causes of the “dumsor” phenomenon and ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply is paramount.
The debate surrounding the 24-hour economy highlights the complex interplay between political aspirations, economic realities, and infrastructural challenges. While the vision of a round-the-clock economy holds promise for economic growth and development, its successful implementation requires a strong foundation of reliable infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector. The ongoing power outages serve as a stark reminder of the critical need for investment and reform in Ghana’s power sector to unlock the nation’s full economic potential and pave the way for a truly vibrant and sustainable 24-hour economy. The government’s commitment to incentivizing businesses will only be effective if coupled with a resolute effort to address the fundamental issue of power supply reliability. Until then, the dream of a 24-hour economy will remain just that – a distant dream.
