Mahama presents 24-hour economy as long-term vision for Ghana’s economic transformation

President John Dramani Mahama has shed light on his flagship 24-Hour Economy policy, characterizing it as both a long-term national goal and a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing productivity, generating employment, and facilitating economic transformation.

During a stakeholder engagement session in Accra, Mahama elaborated on the conceptual basis of the initiative, encouraging Ghanaians to perceive it from a wider developmental perspective.

“Let me start by providing a clear perspective to grasp the 24-hour vision. It serves as both a goal and a program,” he remarked.

He clarified that as a national goal, the 24-Hour Economy signifies a future where Ghana’s economic activities will operate continuously, optimizing output and efficiency across all sectors.

“As a goal, the 24-hour economy signifies a condition where Ghana’s productivity and capital utilization will be so elevated that we will function in multiple shifts throughout the day and night, maximizing the benefits of our infrastructure, human resources, and innovation,” he pointed out.

Mahama stressed that achieving this objective would necessitate a fundamental rethinking of the nation’s economic framework.

He asserted that Ghana must evolve from a system that heavily relies on raw material exports to one that emphasizes value addition and innovation.

“We need to overhaul our productive systems from top to bottom—enhancing volumes and diversity—and transition from dependence on raw materials to exporting value-added products, nutritious foods, pharmaceuticals, clothing, industrial inputs, and digital services,” he stated.

The former president’s remarks come in the context of ongoing national debates regarding job creation, industrialization, and strategies to reposition Ghana within the global economy.

His vision for a 24-Hour Economy has been a cornerstone of his campaign message, promising a transformative change in how the nation operates, produces, and competes on the international stage.