The initiative, which he says pays tribute to the legacy of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, is expected to breathe new life into the manufacturing sector, boost exports, and unlock the economic potential of inland regions.

Speaking in support of the plan, George Antwi-Boasiako, Director of Finance at Hubs Network and Chief Executive Officer of the Startups Co-operative Credit Union, described the 24-hour economy as a focused strategy to address Ghana’s dependence on imports and limited export capacity.

“At the moment, only around 25% of what we manufacture is exported,” said Antwi-Boasiako. “This policy seeks to change that by ensuring Ghana is producing, building, funding businesses and exporting around the clock.”

The proposed policy is centred on value addition, enhanced industrial productivity, and employment creation, particularly for the country’s youth. Ghana currently imports nearly $2 billion worth of food annually, despite having significant arable land. The policy aims to reverse this trend by promoting local agricultural production and food processing.

With Ghana’s gross domestic product projected to grow by 4.2% in 2025, the government is targeting an increase in agriculture’s contribution to the economy from 15% to 30% under the new model. If implemented effectively, the plan is expected to spur job creation, expand the economy, and attract fresh investment.

However, analysts say the success of the policy will largely depend on infrastructure and energy reliability.

“This looks very promising on paper,” Antwi-Boasiako said, “but execution will depend on how well the country can sustain energy supply and logistics support for a 24-hour production cycle.”

The government is reportedly planning to establish industrial parks along the Volta River and other key river basins. These parks would include dedicated transport corridors and alternative energy sources such as solar power, in a bid to support uninterrupted production.

Antwi-Boasiako noted that Ghana’s current energy situation is stable, but long-term success would require consistency and innovation, particularly in powering expanded industrial operations.

He also reflected on lessons from past policy efforts, such as the “One District, One Factory” programme introduced by the previous administration, which showed initial promise but fell short of its long-term goals.

“This time, the government must build on what has been learned. A 24-hour economy requires strong coordination, reliable infrastructure, and public-private partnership,” he added.

--ChannelAfrica--