Mahama’s 24-hour economy Is Not Only a Game changer but the Future-UK-Based Ghanaian Manufacturing Consultant

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 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; the effective running of the human resources and capital for its growth and expansion.

“If you look at the all the cities around world which are using the night life system or 24-hour economy to the extent that their per capital income is higher to operating to achieve productivity” he said.

He added that the concept of a 24-hour economy , prevalent in most developed countries extend businesses operating hours beyond the conventional 8am to 5pm would substantially dwindle unemployment, stating that the policy would more job opportunities and provide beneficiaries with flexible working time which will foster sustainable and productive workforce.

“For instance, if you look at London transport system runs 24-hours and feeding networks of all the businesses… Tokyo,Cairo I mean Egypt capital runs 24-hour economy. Sidney, China etc all these cities are doing tremendously well because life continues 24-hours” he added.

He further stressed that, the 24-hour initiative would increase employment opportunities within the security sector which will help to reduce crime rates in the urban areas on the grounds the security machinery will operate around the clock to ensure the safety of the working environment.

He said the 24-hour economy uninterrupted functioning will help the economy to be more robust to address the pressing economic crisis in the country.

He lavished praises on John Mahama for proposing such 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 to impose on them.

By Lawrence Odoom