The 24 Hour Economy Plan by John Mahama

 Former President John Dramani Mahama unveiled his ambitious plan for a 24-hour economy during the launch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth manifesto, held today in anticipation of the December 2024 elections. Mahama's proposal aims to modernize Ghana's economic infrastructure by extending operational hours across essential services in both the public and private sectors, thereby driving economic growth and enhancing service delivery.

Flagbearer of NDC - John Mahama 

As part of his vision for the public sector, Mahama outlined several critical areas that would transition to 24-hour services, including:

- 24-Hour Ports & Harbours: Ensuring continuous operations to streamline trade, reduce congestion, and enhance Ghana's position in global markets.

  

- 24-Hour Customs: Providing uninterrupted customs services to expedite the clearance of goods, improve revenue collection, and support businesses that rely on timely imports and exports.

- 24-Hour DVLA Services: Offering round-the-clock services at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to reduce delays and provide greater convenience for drivers seeking licenses and vehicle registration.

- 24-Hour Passport Services: Implementing 24-hour passport services to meet the growing demand for travel documentation and eliminate application backlogs.

In addition to these public sector reforms, Mahama intends to incentivize the private sector to adopt a 24-hour operational model. Targeted industries include:

- 24-Hour Agro-processing: Promoting continuous processing of agricultural products to minimize post-harvest losses, increase output, and ensure a steady supply of food products.

- 24-Hour Manufacturing: Encouraging manufacturing companies to operate round the clock to boost production, create jobs, and meet the demands of a growing economy.

- 24-Hour Construction: Supporting nonstop construction activities to accelerate infrastructure development and address urbanization challenges.

- 24-Hour Sanitation & Waste Management: Ensuring that waste management services are available at all times to maintain cleanliness, improve public health, and enhance quality of life.

- 24-Hour Financial Institutions: Promoting extended hours for banks and other financial institutions to better serve businesses and individuals, fostering a dynamic financial sector.

- 24-Hour Retail and Tourism Services: Encouraging longer hours in the retail and tourism sectors to attract more visitors, increase consumer spending, and enhance Ghana's appeal as a global tourist destination.

Mahama's proposal, presented as part of the NDC's youth manifesto, reflects his commitment to transforming Ghana's economy by leveraging the potential of both the public and private sectors. His vision of a 24-hour economy aims to create a more vibrant, competitive, and efficient environment that meets the evolving needs of the nation.