A United Kingdom-based Ghanaian manufacturing consultant, Mr. Kenneth Johnson, has waded into the controversy surrounding Mahama’s 24-hour economy policy, saying the policy is indeed a multi-dimensional strategy for economic transformation where jobs will be available for the disgruntled youth in Ghana.
In an interview with TV XYZ on Ideas Exchange hosted by Mr. Eric Ahianyo, the former parliamentary aspirant for the Mfantsiman constituency noted that former President John Dramani Mahama’s campaign promise of a 24-hour economy would not only be a game changer but also a future for the teeming unemployed youth.
Mr. Johnson indicated that a 24-hour economy ensures that products and services are available around the clock for consumers; it also ensures the effective running of human resources and capital for its growth and expansion.
“If you look at all the cities around the world that are using the nightlife system or 24-hour economy to the extent that their per capita income is higher to operate to achieve productivity,” he said.
He added that the concept of a 24-hour economy, prevalent in most developed countries, extending businesses operating hours beyond the conventional 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. would substantially dwindle unemployment, stating that the policy would create more job opportunities and provide beneficiaries with flexible working hours, which will foster a sustainable and productive workforce.
“For instance, if you look at the London transport system, which runs 24 hours a day and feeds the networks of all the businesses in Tokyo, Cairo, I mean the capital of Egypt, runs a 24-hour economy. Sidney, China, etc.—all these cities are doing tremendously well because life continues 24 hours a day,” he added.
He further stressed that the 24-hour initiative would increase employment opportunities within the security sector, which will help reduce crime rates in urban areas because the security machinery will operate around the clock to ensure the safety of the working environment.
He said the 24-hour uninterrupted functioning of the economy will help the economy be more robust to address the pressing economic crisis in the country.
He lavished praise on John Mahama for proposing such an initiative as a means of reducing the rate of unemployment in the country.
He reiterated that Ghanaians should be optimistic and support this vision from John Mahama because the TUC, which is the Labour Force, has lauded the 24-hour economy policy, thus the initiative will provide grounds for more job opportunities for all.
He also urged the next NDC government to provide incentives and create a favorable environment by making a 24-hour economy exciting for entrepreneurs and not imposing on them.
