Dr. Sa-ad Iddrisu, in a statement released on November 8th, has expressed that the “24-hour economy” promise made by Former President Mahama during his address to the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on November 7th could have a transformative impact on Ghana’s economy. Former President Mahama, also known as H.E. JM, highlighted his vision to turn Ghana into a 24-hour economy if reelected as president in the upcoming elections.
Advantages of a 24-hours economy
Dr. Iddrisu explains that a 24-hour economy, a concept common in developed nations, involves three work shifts and offers various advantages. Extending business hours beyond the traditional 8 am to 5 pm could significantly reduce unemployment, create job opportunities, and provide flexible working hours for employees, promoting a sustainable and productive workforce.
Implementing a 24-hour economy would require enhanced security measures, contributing to reduced urban crime rates and increasing job opportunities in the security sector, particularly for young people. This initiative would also prioritize essential services like electricity and water supply, crucial for the uninterrupted functioning of the economy, which would benefit citizens.
Dr. Iddrisu also pointed out the potential for nightlife tourism as a bonus of a 24-hour economy. Implementing this in major cities like Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, Ho, and others could stimulate nightlife tourism, attracting young people and travelers seeking unique experiences, which would generate additional revenue for local businesses and the overall economy.
Additional benefits he mentioned include traffic reduction during peak hours and increased foreign competitiveness. A 24-hour economy has the potential to ease traffic congestion by spreading work schedules across different time slots, reducing commute times and improving city mobility. It would also empower Ghanaian youth to compete globally without the need to relocate. For example, IT companies could serve foreign clients around the clock, generating more revenue and employment opportunities.
Recommendation
However, Dr. Iddrisu emphasized the importance of addressing potential challenges, such as the risk of increased night crimes. He called for vigilant support and engagement from citizens, community leaders, religious figures, and chiefs. Careful consideration is also essential when identifying sectors in the Ghanaian economy suitable for 24-hour operation, to ensure a balanced approach without overwhelming specific industries.
In a related story, Atta Issah, the NDC Sagnarigu constituency parliamentary candidate, commented on the recent NPP presidential primaries, where Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerged as the victor. He congratulated Dr. Bawumia on his election as the NPP flagbearer for 2024 but noted that the vice president’s victory was marred by a sense of defeat. Atta Issah believed that Dr. Bawumia’s popularity had decreased, and he pointed out that even Kennedy Agyapong, who lacked government support, performed impressively in the primaries, winning about 50 constituencies and two regions. Atta Issah predicted that Dr. Bawumia would lose the 2024 elections due to the performance of the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led government.
Source: Ghana360news.com
