Accra, Ghana – His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, on Friday, 9th May, provided Ghanaians with a full rundown on how far government has come with the much-talked-about 24-Hour Economy policy. This policy, a key plank in the NDC administration’s agenda, aims to totally change how business is done and how folks live their lives across the nation.

Speaking to the nation, Prez Mahama pointed out the real steps being taken on the ground to make this big idea a reality. He made it clear that the engine room of the policy is working hand-in-hand with the Development Bank of Ghana (DBG) and the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Bank (GIIF). The goal of this strong partnership is to put in place the needed cash power to back businesses and industries that will be running day and night.

The President also announced that Cabinet has given the green light to some important changes in the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act and the Labour Act. These changes will specifically address businesses that operate 24/7, giving them a clear set of rules to follow.

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Already, several big players in both government and the private sector are getting ready to jump on board. Prez Mahama highlighted how the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched a brand new 24-Hour Passport Service, with their main office now working around the clock. He also mentioned how the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) used a 24-hour shift to clear the long queue for licenses and will soon open a new 24-hour office in Adenta, Accra.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has started a 24-Hour Passport Service, with the main passport office working ‘non-stop’. The DVLA used a 24-hour system to clear the many people waiting for their licenses and will soon open a new office in Adenta, Accra, that works 24 hours,” President Mahama stated emphatically.

Furthermore, the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) is set to roll out an exciting program called Graduates in Corporate Support (GRICS). This initiative will see 20,000 fresh graduates attached to companies that operate 24 hours a day, giving these young people vital work experience and skills.

To ensure the safety of businesses operating at all hours, the YEA is teaming up with the security services – the Fire Service, Police, and Immigration. They are working towards training and deploying a strong force of 23,000 recruits specifically for this purpose.

“The YEA is also working with our security agencies – the Fire Service, Police, and Immigration – to make sure companies working 24 hours are safe. We are training and will deploy 23,000 new recruits for this important job,” he added.

In a move to encourage more companies to sign up for the 24-Hour Economy policy, the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition will be offering cheaper electricity tariffs during the night. This smart move is expected to cut down the running costs for businesses and also promote the wise use of energy.