The 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme announced in Ghana’s 2026 Budget is set to become the cornerstone of President Mahama’s job creation and industrialization drive.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson described the policy as a “productivity revolution” that will transform Ghana into a competitive, export-led economy by leveraging private investment, technological innovation, and extended production hours.
“We are moving from resilience to productivity, from stability to jobs,” Dr. Forson said. “The 24-hour economy will expand access to decent employment and open new frontiers in manufacturing, logistics, and agribusiness.”
According to the budget document, the initiative is projected to create 1.7 million jobs by 2028, with over 400,000 new employment opportunities expected in 2026 alone.
The plan will prioritize industries such as food processing, textiles, mining services, transport, and digital services, sectors with strong night-shift and continuous production potential.
To finance the initiative, the government will establish a 24-Hour Economy Secretariat, supported by the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) and the Development Bank Ghana (DBG) to crowd in private capital.
Strategic projects under the programme include the Volo–Battor Agro-Industrial Park, the Volta Lake Transport Corridor, and the Tamale Air Cargo Hub, which together aim to position Ghana as a regional logistics and production hub.
The 24-Hour Economy will also link with the Big Push Infrastructure Agenda to provide stable power, security, and transportation systems needed to sustain around-the-clock economic activity.
