President Mahama engages private sector on 24-hour economy rollout

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to partnering with the private sector. This partnership aims to implement Ghana’s 24-hour economy policy.

He shared this during a meeting at Jubilee House. Business leaders, trade associations, and stakeholders attended the event.

The President emphasized that private sector support is essential for success. The policy seeks to transform Ghana’s economy through increased productivity and inclusive growth.

“This meeting is crucial for our national reset,” he stated. He discussed the rollout of the 24-hour economy policy and its components, including the 24H Plus Programme.

The 24-hour economy policy serves as both a long-term goal and an immediate action plan.

“The policy reflects a state where productivity will be maximized,” he explained. It aims to operate in multiple shifts day and night, enhancing infrastructure use and innovation.

This idea gained strong public support during the recent election campaign. It is now central to his administration's strategy for full employment and sustainable growth.

Regarding implementation, President Mahama reviewed the final draft of the economic policy. He expressed confidence in its readiness for practical outcomes.

“I received the complete draft from my advisor earlier this month,” he said. “I am confident we have an actionable framework.”

He noted that while a stable macroeconomic environment is important, the focus is on boosting production and job creation.

“At its core, it’s about transforming value chains comprehensively,” he added. This includes addressing structural bottlenecks in infrastructure, finance, land systems, logistics, and skills development.

One key proposal is developing the Volta Lake Economic Corridor. This corridor will serve as a logistics hub and production base for agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

The President outlined how private sector involvement would be supported through targeted financing and incentives. The Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund will help support SMEs and cooperatives.

“To reduce delays for investors,” he said, “we will create local land banks that are investment-ready.”

On human capital development, he introduced Aspire24. This sub-programme will prepare young people for shift-based work and entrepreneurship opportunities.

“We’ll also provide tax reliefs on machinery,” he assured business leaders of a supportive environment.

Importantly, each district will have its own implementation task force within local assemblies. This approach tailors the policy to local needs and strengths.

“This is no longer just a vision,” President Mahama declared. “It is an inclusive plan that is beginning now.”

He plans to publicly release the draft programme document on Tuesday for consultation. The official launch is set for July on Republic Day—a symbolic moment for national renewal.

To ensure stability, Mahama announced plans to establish a 24-hour economy secretariat backed by legislation in Parliament.

He concluded by thanking participants for their support in this new direction.

“The 24-hour economic policy represents shared growth and decent jobs,” he said. “Let us make Ghana a nation where opportunity never sleeps.”