Ghana will be the first to implement a full-fledged 24-hour economy in Africa

Ghana was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence from colonial rule in 1957, setting the stage for other African nations to follow suit. Ghana has also been a leader in promoting pan-Africanism and regional integration, playing a key role in the formation of the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Ghana has made significant progress in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, and has been recognised for its efforts to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for its citizens. The country has also been a leader in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment, with a number of initiatives aimed at increasing women's participation in politics, business, and other sectors of society.

The country is also a major producer of gold, cocoa, and oil, and has attracted significant foreign investment in recent years. Ghana's reputation as a pacesetter in Africa is well-deserved, and the country continues to be a shining example of progress and development on the continent.

Ghana is on the cusps of setting another record as the first country in Africa to implement a full-fledged 24-hour economy policy if H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress is elected as president on December 7, 2024.

A 24-hour economy refers to an economic model where businesses and services operate around the clock, 24 hours a day. It involves adjusting the architecture or infrastructure of the economy to support continuous operations, including businesses, factories, government services, restaurants, shops, healthcare delivery, banking, and other essential services.

President John Dramani Mahama's proposed 24-hour economy policy is part of his vision to create sustainable jobs. And implementing the policy can bring about several benefits, including:

Increased economic activity: Operating businesses and services round the clock can lead to increased economic activity and productivity, as it allows for more flexibility in working hours and greater access to goods and services for consumers.

Job creation: A 24-hour economy can create new job opportunities, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and healthcare that operate outside traditional working hours. This can help reduce unemployment and boost economic growth.

Improved competitiveness: Adopting a 24-hour economy can enhance Ghana's competitiveness on the global stage by allowing businesses to operate at all hours and cater to international markets in different time zones.

Enhanced convenience for citizens: Having access to services and amenities 24/7 can improve the quality of life for citizens, making it easier for them to access essential services and conduct business at their convenience.

Tourism and hospitality growth: A 24-hour economy can attract more tourists and visitors to Ghana, as they can enjoy a vibrant nightlife and access services at any time of the day. This can boost the tourism and hospitality sectors and contribute to economic growth.

Social benefits: A 24-hour economy can create a more vibrant and dynamic social scene, with increased opportunities for socialising, entertainment, and cultural activities outside traditional working hours.

Consequently, implementing a 24-hour economy in Ghana can have a positive impact on economic growth, job creation, competitiveness, and quality of life for citizens; and also serve as a model for other countries on the African continent.

Anthony Obeng Afrane