Ghanatodayonline.com News, Politics, Health, Education & More
In keeping with a major campaign pledge, President John Dramani Mahama has declared significant progress in implementing his administration’s famous 24-hour economy program within his first 120 days in office.
During a news conference, President Mahama said that the ambitious policy’s implementation had started in earnest.
“We promised to commence drafting the needed legal amendments and prepare for implementation within the first 120 days — and we have delivered on that promise,” he said.
He disclosed that important changes to the Labour Act and the Ghana Investment Promotion Center (GIPC) Act have been approved by the Cabinet.
He clarified that the goals of these modifications are to improve social protection, establish a legislative environment that encourages 24/7 economic activity, and fortify labor and business ties.
Several government agencies have already made the switch to round-the-clock operations as part of the policy’s early implementation, with positive outcomes.
“The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre has introduced 24-hour premium services to eliminate processing delays for investors,” the President stated.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rolled out a 24-hour passport service, and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has used extended working hours to clear an 18-month backlog of license applications.”
The effect of the policy on employment is already starting to take shape.
According to President Mahama, the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) is getting ready to introduce a new program called the Graduates in Corporate Support Program, which will place 20,000 recent graduates in companies that are open 24/7.
The Ghana Police Service is creating a 24-hour police unit that will improve night patrols and use cutting-edge surveillance technologies to increase security during nighttime operations.
Regarding electricity, Mahama disclosed that the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) and the electricity Ministry are collaborating to implement smart meters with time-of-use rates.
By providing lower rates to companies that switch to 24-hour operations, this will encourage the use of energy during off-peak hours.
Interest in the strategy among the private sector has increased, and many companies have indicated that they are prepared to support it.
“We are pursuing new avenues of job creation, expanding opportunities especially for young graduates, and positioning the private sector as a critical engine of sustainable growth,” President Mahama stated.
He emphasized that the goal of the 24-hour economy strategy is to promote structural change throughout Ghana’s economy, focusing on important industries like manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture.
“This programme will serve as a catalyst for long-term economic renewal,” he said, “anchored on innovation, productivity, and inclusive growth.”
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
