The Gallant Cadres of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have issued a fervent call to the Ghanaian youth, urging them to throw their weight behind the government’s flagship 24-Hour Economic Policy.
The group described the initiative as a game-changer that could significantly reduce the country’s dependency on conventional working hours and imports, while unlocking the nation’s full potential in productivity and innovation.
In a press release dated Sunday, July 6, 2025, the group highlighted the transformative potential of the policy, which they say is aimed at generating massive employment, especially for young people.
“The 24-hour economic policy is a potentially transformative strategy designed to unlock Ghana’s full economic potential and, critically, empower its burgeoning youth population with employment opportunities,” the statement read.
The Gallant Cadres referenced alarming data from the Ghana Statistical Service as of June 2024, which indicated that over 7.3 million Ghanaians were grappling with severe poverty, while the unemployment rate stood at 15 percent.
Even more troubling, youth unemployment had surged to 32 percent, figures the group insists demand immediate and decisive economic action.
They described the 24-Hour Economy as precisely that kind of intervention. They noted that the core objectives of the policy are to boost national productivity, stimulate both local and foreign investment, and widen the employment net, especially for young Ghanaians struggling to find meaningful work.
While acknowledging potential challenges in implementing the initiative, the Gallant Cadres expressed unshakable faith in the ability of President John Dramani Mahama and his administration to see the policy through.
“The objective of the policy is to enhance productivity, stimulate investment, and broaden employment opportunities, particularly for young individuals,” they reiterated.
The statement concluded with a renewed call for national unity around the initiative, describing it as not just a policy, but a collective mission to lift Ghana’s economy and change the trajectory of youth employment.
The Gallant Cadres encouraged all young Ghanaians to back the policy and join hands with the government in building what they described as “a bold and inclusive future.”
Below is the full press release:
Press Release
To All Media Houses
The Gallant Cadres of NDC
0208573712
0243179445
0542002741
0546572070
24-Hour Economy Policy: The Game Changer for Ghanaian Youth.
In recent years, Ghana’s economic trajectory has faced challenges ranging from youth unemployment to over-dependence on traditional working hours and importation, which limit productivity and innovation. As at June 2024, a report by the Ghana Statistical Service showed that 7.3 million Ghanaians were experiencing severe poverty. With unemployment rate hovering around 15% and youth unemployment about 32%, an economic intervention such as the 24-hour economy is critical.
The 24-hour economy policy—a potentially transformative strategy designed to unlock Ghana’s full economic potential and, critically, to empower its burgeoning youth population.
What is the 24-Hour Economy Policy? A 24-hour economy refers to an economic system that operates continuously throughout the day and night, including weekends and holidays. This involves ensuring key sectors—like manufacturing, healthcare, retail, transportation, logistics, ICT, tourism, and hospitality—function in shifts around the clock.
The goal is to increase productivity, attract investment, and expand job opportunities, especially for young people.
Why It Matters to Ghanaian Youth – Ghana’s population is overwhelmingly youthful, with over 57% under the age of 25. This demographic could be a demographic dividend or a ticking time bomb, depending on how it is harnessed.
Youth unemployment and underemployment have reached concerning levels, with many graduates unable to find jobs matching their skills. The 24-hour economy presents a new frontier for:
1. Job Creation
Operating services and industries around the clock requires multiple shifts, naturally increasing the number of employment opportunities. This is especially vital in sectors like call centers, delivery services, media production, security services, health care, and digital support services—industries where the youth already show strong engagement.
2. Entrepreneurship Opportunities
Ghana imports in excess of GHS 2.6b of food, GHS 3.4b of grains and 2.4b of sugar. The policy will fuel entrepreneurship by creating demand for these goods. It gives rise to new business models and innovation, especially in the gig and digital economy, which many young Ghanaians are already tapping into.
3. Upskilling and Digital Inclusion
To meet the demands of a round-the-clock economy, a significant investment in vocational and digital skills training will be necessary. This creates opportunities for the youth to gain relevant, future-oriented skills—coding, AI, digital marketing, cyber security—that align with global economic trends.
Challenges to Anticipate
While the 24-hour economy has enormous promise, implementation must be strategic:
Infrastructure: Energy reliability, public transportation, internet connectivity, and security need upgrading to support continuous operations.
Labour laws: Existing labour laws may need revision to accommodate night shifts and ensure worker protections.
Cultural resistance: Ghanaian society is not yet fully accustomed to night-time economic activities outside of essential services. Changing public perception will take time.
Safety and Security: Night-time operations require a robust security framework, especially in urban centers where crime could deter participation.
The Role of Government and the Private Sector
For this policy to succeed, a multi-stakeholder approach is essential. Government must lead with policy reforms, infrastructure investments, and fiscal incentives. Meanwhile, the private sector should innovate around service delivery, logistics, and workforce management to fully utilize 24-hour cycles. Public-private partnerships could also help in training programs, safety campaigns, and community sensitization.
A Path to Economic Transformation
The 24-hour economy policy within 18 months could be the catalyst Ghana needs to move toward a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready economy. It is not just about working longer hours—it is about working smarter, leveraging technology, and ensuring every Ghanaian—especially the youth—has a place in the economy regardless of the time of day.
The clock is ticking. For Ghana’s youth, a 24-hour economy could mean the dawn of a new era—one of opportunity, innovation, and empowerment.By adopting the 24-hour economy policy, Ghana can position itself not only as a regional economic hub but also as a nation that truly invests in its most valuable resource: its youth.
The Gallant Cadres of NDC have no doubt in our minds that the government of President John Mahama will deliver. We support the policy and so should you.
Comrade Richard E A Sarpong, Father Casford. The PRO, 0208573712
Ohemaa Akosua Borngreat, Deputy PRO, 0243179445
Mr F Kadan, Secretary, 0242276044
Mr Eric Nana Takyi, Deputy Secretary, 0546572070
Carrick Kpeglo, Chairman. 0542002741
