Education Minister and Tamale South MP Haruna Iddrisu has dismissed suggestions that the 24-Hour Economy policy is mere political rhetoric, insisting it is a serious economic strategy.
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Speaking after President John Dramani Mahama launched the initiative, Iddrisu described the policy as a transition “from slogan to action.” He emphasized that Mahama had been developing this plan for years, and it responds to the country’s urgent economic challenges.
“This is not a nerve-breaking exercise,” he said. “It’s the product of long-term contemplation and a response to Ghana’s import dependency.”
The 24-Hour Economy policy was introduced alongside an Export Development Initiative. According to Iddrisu, both are designed to reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported goods, highlighting that the country spends over $10 billion annually on rice, grains, poultry, and sugar.
“Mahama believes Ghana must feed itself. The policy focuses on self-reliance, food security, and domestic productivity,” Iddrisu explained.
He added that former NDC strategist Goosie Tanoh will serve as the anchor for implementing the policy.
Iddrisu stressed that the private sector will drive the initiative, with the government playing only a supporting role.
“This is a private-sector-led effort. The government will act as a facilitator, not a controller,” he said.
