NDC's 24-Hour Economy Plan Under Scrutiny: What Experts Say About Job Creation Claims

Ghana's opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has placed its 24-hour economy policy at the centre of its economic narrative, with flagbearer John Dramani Mahama promoting it as a transformative solution to the country's persistent unemployment and slow economic growth. However, experts are beginning to question whether the ambitious policy can deliver on these lofty promises.

Dr Frank Bannor, a senior economist at the Institute for Economic and Policy Research and Planning (IERPP), has raised concerns about the gap between the NDC's rhetoric and the practical implementation of the 24-hour economy model. The policy, which envisions round-the-clock business operations and productivity, is meant to create new employment opportunities and boost trade across multiple sectors.

What the 24-Hour Economy Actually Means

The NDC's 24-hour economy framework proposes extending operational hours across businesses, industries, and services to maximise productivity and economic activity. The vision extends beyond traditional 9-to-5 work patterns, encouraging shift-based operations that could theoretically increase output, consumer spending, and job creation in hospitality, retail, transportation, manufacturing, and entertainment sectors.

Proponents argue this model mirrors successful implementation in developed economies and emerging markets, where extended hours have correlated with higher employment rates and increased consumer activity during off-peak times.

The Implementation Challenge

Dr Bannor's questioning centres on a critical distinction: the difference between policy announcement and practical execution. Ghana's labour market, informal sector dynamics, and infrastructure constraints present real obstacles to seamless 24-hour operations across the economy.

Key concerns include:

• Whether adequate electricity supply exists to support round-the-clock operations nationwide
• How workers' rights, safety, and well-being will be protected under extended shift schedules
• Whether businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), have the capital to invest in extended operations
• How transportation and security services will scale to support 24-hour activity

Why This Matters for Ghana

Unemployment remains one of Ghana's most pressing challenges, particularly among young people. Any credible policy promising job creation attracts legitimate scrutiny, as implementation determines whether promises translate into real opportunities for ordinary Ghanaians.

The NDC's 24-hour economy concept has resonated with voters seeking tangible solutions to economic hardship. However, critics like Dr Bannor argue that policymakers must move beyond aspirational messaging to detail financing mechanisms, sectoral rollout plans, and realistic timelines for job creation.

Ghana's experience with major economic policies demonstrates that ambitious initiatives require robust planning, adequate funding, and stakeholder buy-in. The informal sector, which employs millions of Ghanaians, operates differently from formal enterprises and may not easily adapt to structured 24-hour models without targeted support.

As the NDC develops this policy further ahead of elections, both the party and electorate will benefit from detailed white papers, pilot programmes, and honest assessments of implementation costs and timelines. For now, Dr Bannor's scrutiny reflects a broader demand for substance beneath Ghana's political promises.