Duncan Amoah Urges Government to Prioritize Security and Infrastructure Over Markets for 24-Hour Economy Success

Duncan Amoah, the Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), has called for a strategic shift in how the Ghanaian government implements its flagship 24-hour economy policy. While the initiative aims to boost national productivity and job creation, Amoah argues that the current emphasis on physical infrastructure, such as building markets, may be misplaced. He contends that for a true round-the-clock economy to take root, the government must first address the foundational barriers that prevent businesses and citizens from operating safely and efficiently during nighttime hours.

Central to Amoah's critique is the necessity of creating an environment that fosters safety and visibility. He emphasized that the mere construction of markets will not entice traders or consumers if they feel vulnerable to crime under the cover of darkness. Instead, the COPEC boss advocated for massive investment in widespread street lighting and a significant, visible increase in police presence across urban centers and commercial hubs after sunset. Without these essential safety conditions, Amoah warned that substantial investments in physical market infrastructure might ultimately go to waste, as businesses will remain reluctant to adopt off-peak schedules.

Beyond physical safety, Amoah suggested that the transition to a 24-hour economy requires a robust suite of incentives to offset the unique costs of nighttime operations. He proposed that the government should consider providing specific incentives for businesses that choose to operate during off-peak hours, such as utility subsidies or targeted tax breaks. These measures would serve to compensate for the logistical challenges of night shifts and encourage a market-driven demand for 24-hour services, rather than relying solely on state-led construction projects to stimulate activity.

As the implementation of the 24-hour economy continues to be a focal point of President John Mahama's administration, Amoah’s intervention highlights the need for a comprehensive policy framework that transcends simple infrastructure. The success of this economic transformation will likely depend on the government's ability to coordinate across multiple sectors—including energy, security, and finance—to build a system where businesses feel both protected and empowered to operate at all hours. Moving forward, economic stakeholders are watching to see if the administration will integrate these structural recommendations into its broader strategy to ensure the policy's long-term viability.