Augustus Goosie Tanoh predicts 24-hour economy jobs within two years

Augustus Goosie Tanoh, the Presidential Adviser on the 24-Hour Economy, has announced that Ghanaians can expect to see tangible job creation from the flagship economic programme within the next one to two years. Speaking on the progress of the initiative, Mr. Tanoh indicated that the government is currently laying the groundwork to ensure the policy translates into sustainable employment opportunities across various sectors. This timeline comes as a response to calls from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) for greater clarity on the implementation and impact of the programme, which remains a central pillar of President John Mahama’s economic agenda.

According to the Presidential Adviser, the government is prioritizing a strategic selection of 10 to 15 industrial projects out of an initial list of 32. These projects are specifically designed to bolster local production and secure a steady supply of raw materials for Ghanaian industries. Mr. Tanoh explained that the successful execution of these projects is essential for creating the necessary economic environment where businesses can operate around the clock. By focusing on these key areas, the administration aims to address structural bottlenecks that have previously hindered industrial growth and limited the expansion of work shifts.

A critical component of the 24-hour economy strategy is the significant increase in industrial capacity utilization. Currently, industrial capacity in Ghana fluctuates between 36% and 42%, but the new framework targets an increase to between 80% and 90%. Mr. Tanoh emphasized that job creation will be a direct result of this enhanced production and the subsequent rise in demand. As industries move toward full capacity, the need for additional shifts will naturally lead to more hiring, fulfilling the government's promise of creating a more vibrant and inclusive labor market.

As the framework for the 24-hour economy continues to be established, the government maintains that the initiative is a comprehensive shift in the nation’s economic structure rather than a temporary measure. The focus remains on ensuring that the necessary infrastructure, security, and policy incentives are in place to support businesses transitioning to the new model. With the first phase of projects underway, the administration expects the resulting industrial activity to provide a significant boost to the national economy and improve the livelihoods of many Ghanaians by the end of the two-year window.