Ghanaian economist Kwame Pianim has expressed skepticism about the feasibility of former President John Mahama’s 24-hour economy initiative.
Pianim highlighted the essential role of electricity in sustaining such an economy, citing the current challenges faced by businesses operating on single shifts.
In a February 26, 2024 interview on Joy News, he called for a prudent approach to economic and policy decisions, emphasizing the need to address existing challenges rather than proposing potentially difficult-to-implement initiatives.
Pianim remarked, “People are discussing the 24-hour economy, but I’m puzzled by it. What does it entail? We don’t even have enough electricity for one shift, so how can we manage three shifts?
“We initiated the 24-hour economy. As Finance Minister, we instructed PwD to conduct repairs at night to ease traffic. However, supervisors refused to oversee operations due to security concerns.
“So, let’s carefully consider our options and focus on what we can achieve now. No country operates a 24-hour economy.”
The 24-hour economy policy, as outlined by the NDC, aims to modernize Ghana’s economy by enabling round-the-clock operations, creating more business opportunities and jobs.
The policy seeks to harness the full potential of agriculture and agribusiness while investing in essential social and IT infrastructure to spur economic development.
Furthermore, the 24-hour economic policy prioritizes equipping young people with the necessary knowledge, skills, and values to thrive in a sustainable and resource-efficient society—providing them with critical Green Skills essential for advancing a sustainable world.
