This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.
In a bid to rally the youth to support the Government’s 24-Hour Economic Policy, the Gallant Cadres of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has made a passionate appeal to the Ghanaian youth, assuring them that the policy holds the key to reducing the country’s over-dependence on traditional working hours, importation, and rather seeks to unleash the country’s productivity and innovation potential.
In a press release issued on Sunday, 6th July, 2025, they assert that the 24-hour economic policy is a potentially transformative strategy designed to unlock Ghana’s full economic potential and, critically, empower its burgeoning youth population with employment opportunities.
They add that as of June 2024, citing the Ghana Statistical Service report, it indicated that an estimated 7.3 million Ghanaians were experiencing severe poverty, with an unemployment rate hovering around 15% and youth unemployment at approximately 32% – an economic intervention such as the 24-hour economy is a critical strategy to alleviate youth unemployment.
According to the release, the objective of the policy is to enhance productivity, stimulate investment, and broaden employment opportunities, particularly for young individuals.
The Gallant Cadres of NDC foresee certain challenges with the policy’s implementation; however, they express absolute confidence in President John Mahama’s government to deliver. The statement concludes by expressing support for the policy and encouraging the youth to do the same.
Below is the full press release:
Press Release
To All Media Houses
The Gallant Cadres of NDC
0208573712
0243179445
0542002741
0546572070
24-Hour Economy Policy: The Game Changer for Ghanaian Youth.
In recent years, Ghana’s economic trajectory has faced challenges ranging from youth unemployment to over-dependence on traditional working hours and importation, which limit productivity and innovation. As at June 2024, a report by the Ghana Statistical Service showed that 7.3 million Ghanaians were experiencing severe poverty. With unemployment rate hovering around 15% and youth unemployment about 32%, an economic intervention such as the 24-hour economy is critical.
The 24-hour economy policy—a potentially transformative strategy designed to unlock Ghana’s full economic potential and, critically, to empower its burgeoning youth population.
What is the 24-Hour Economy Policy? A 24-hour economy refers to an economic system that operates continuously throughout the day and night, including weekends and holidays. This involves ensuring key sectors—like manufacturing, healthcare, retail, transportation, logistics, ICT, tourism, and hospitality—function in shifts around the clock.
The goal is to increase productivity, attract investment, and expand job opportunities, especially for young people.
Why It Matters to Ghanaian Youth – Ghana’s population is overwhelmingly youthful, with over 57% under the age of 25. This demographic could be a demographic dividend or a ticking time bomb, depending on how it is harnessed.
Youth unemployment and underemployment have reached concerning levels, with many graduates unable to find jobs matching their skills. The 24-hour economy presents a new frontier for:
1. Job Creation
Operating services and industries around the clock requires multiple shifts, naturally increasing the number of employment opportunities. This is especially vital in sectors like call centers, delivery services, media production, security services, health care, and digital support services—industries where the youth already show strong engagement.
2. Entrepreneurship Opportunities
Ghana imports in excess of GHS 2.6b of food, GHS 3.4b of grains and 2.4b of sugar. The policy will fuel entrepreneurship by creating demand for these goods. It gives rise to new business models and innovation, especially in the gig and digital economy, which many young Ghanaians are already tapping into.
3. Upskilling and Digital Inclusion
To meet the demands of a round-the-clock economy, a significant investment in vocational and digital skills training will be necessary. This creates opportunities for the youth to gain relevant, future-oriented skills—coding, AI, digital marketing, cyber security—that align with global economic trends.
Challenges to Anticipate
While the 24-hour economy has enormous promise, implementation must be strategic:
Infrastructure: Energy reliability, public transportation, internet connectivity, and security need upgrading to support continuous operations.
Labour laws: Existing labour laws may need revision to accommodate night shifts and ensure worker protections.
Cultural resistance: Ghanaian society is not yet fully accustomed to night-time economic activities outside of essential services. Changing public perception will take time.
Safety and Security: Night-time operations require a robust security framework, especially in urban centers where crime could deter participation.
The Role of Government and the Private Sector
For this policy to succeed, a multi-stakeholder approach is essential. Government must lead with policy reforms, infrastructure investments, and fiscal incentives. Meanwhile, the private sector should innovate around service delivery, logistics, and workforce management to fully utilize 24-hour cycles. Public-private partnerships could also help in training programs, safety campaigns, and community sensitization.
A Path to Economic Transformation
The 24-hour economy policy within 18 months could be the catalyst Ghana needs to move toward a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready economy. It is not just about working longer hours—it is about working smarter, leveraging technology, and ensuring every Ghanaian—especially the youth—has a place in the economy regardless of the time of day.
The clock is ticking. For Ghana’s youth, a 24-hour economy could mean the dawn of a new era—one of opportunity, innovation, and empowerment.By adopting the 24-hour economy policy, Ghana can position itself not only as a regional economic hub but also as a nation that truly invests in its most valuable resource: its youth.
The Gallant Cadres of NDC have no doubt in our minds that the government of President John Mahama will deliver. We support the policy and so should you.
Comrade Richard E A Sarpong, Father Casford. The PRO, 0208573712
Ohemaa Akosua Borngreat, Deputy PRO, 0243179445
Mr F Kadan, Secretary, 0242276044
Mr Eric Nana Takyi, Deputy Secretary, 0546572070
Carrick Kpeglo, Chairman. 0542002741
