John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has presented his ideas for a "24-hour economy" policy. He feels that this will help buck the worrying trend of Ghana's youth risking their lives to travel across the Mediterranean and Sahara to Europe in search of better opportunities.
The centerpiece of Mahama's 2024 reelection campaign is his 24-hour economy plan, which aims to promote job creation and economic growth.
Speaking during the 50th anniversary of the Sunyani Catholic Diocese, Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to enacting the policy, citing the severe circumstances brought about by the dearth of work prospects for Ghana's dynamic youth.
According to Mahama, "Our youth are losing faith in the future of our country and are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of jobs."
"Young Ghanaians are speaking out against injustice by putting their lives in jeopardy to cross the Mediterranean and the Sahara to reach Europe. By bolstering our economy and providing more jobs for our youth, we can buck this trend. There is an immediate need to take action.
Mahama's idea for a 24-hour economy has been accepted by the government, and it would be included as the "night economy" in the 2024 budget by Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
Mahama clarified that his idea of a 24-hour economy goes beyond a night economy centered around increasing travel.
In his ideal economy, all business sectors run a three-shift schedule that is safe and secure and that runs around the clock, every day of the week.
Mahama stressed, "My 24-hour economy concept goes beyond just a night economy to boost tourism."
"I see an economy in which there is a sense of safety and security and all business sectors run a three-shift system 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
This 24-hour economy is going to be optional rather than mandated. Companies who operate during off-peak hours will benefit from lower electricity bills and tax breaks, which will encourage them to participate. A technique called as "Time of Use" is used by special meters.
