Ghana's 24-Hour Economy Needs Reliable Power: What Deputy Energy Minister Said at GITW

Ghana's push to establish a thriving 24-hour economy hinges on one critical factor: steady, dependable energy supply. That was the core message delivered by Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan-Mensah, at the Ghana Investment and Trade Week (GITW) Conference 2026, held this week at the Palms Convention Centre in Accra.

Speaking in representation of Energy Minister Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, Mr. Gyan-Mensah underscored that reliable electricity and modern infrastructure are not optional luxuries but essential foundations for Ghana to realise its ambitious economic vision. The conference, organised under the auspices of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, brought together investors, business leaders and policymakers to discuss how various sectors must converge to drive competitiveness.

The 24-Hour Economy and Why Energy Matters

Ghana's 24-hour economy concept envisions businesses, industries and services operating round-the-clock to maximise productivity and economic output. However, this ambitious agenda cannot succeed without constant power. Manufacturing plants, data centres, hospitality ventures, healthcare facilities and transportation networks all require uninterrupted electricity to function effectively throughout the day and night.

The Deputy Minister's remarks highlight a reality that many Ghanaians understand painfully: energy challenges have historically constrained business operations, increased production costs and deterred investment. Without solving power supply issues, the 24-hour economy remains aspirational rather than achievable. This is why the government's reaffirmation of commitment to reliable energy infrastructure carries significant weight for Ghana's economic transformation agenda.

Beyond Energy: A Holistic Approach to Competitiveness

Mr. Gyan-Mensah stressed that energy alone is not sufficient. According to his address, successful implementation of the 24-hour economy requires integration across multiple sectors: quality infrastructure, sustainable real estate development, efficient mobility systems, and strategic investment frameworks. This interconnected approach recognises that businesses need not just power, but also transportation networks, quality buildings, water supply and other complementary services.

The Deputy Minister noted that these combined investments will enhance Ghana's attractiveness to both domestic and foreign investors, boost industrial output, generate employment and strengthen the nation's position in regional and international trade. A manufacturing hub with excellent roads and reliable electricity becomes far more competitive than one lacking either element.

Why This Matters for Ghana

The government's emphasis on public-private partnerships is particularly significant. Alone, the state cannot fund the vast infrastructure and energy upgrades required. Private sector involvement—through partnerships, investments and operational expertise—is essential for scaling solutions rapidly and sustainably. If these partnerships materialise effectively, Ghana could unlock billions in investment that might otherwise flow to competing African economies.

For ordinary Ghanaians, this translates into potential job creation across construction, manufacturing, services and technology sectors. For businesses already struggling with energy costs, reliable 24-hour power supply could dramatically improve profitability and competitiveness. For the nation, stronger investment and trade position could boost government revenues and economic resilience.

The challenge ahead remains substantial: Ghana must demonstrate that these commitments translate into tangible improvements in power supply stability, infrastructure quality and business environment predictability. The GITW conference suggests the government recognises this imperative, but successful execution will ultimately determine whether Ghana's 24-hour economy ambition becomes reality or remains unfulfilled promise.