Flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress John Dramani Mahama says his proposed 24-hour economy will provide Ghanaians more employment opportunities.
Speaking at the 50th Anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Suyani, John Dramani Mahama explained that the policy will provide a safe and conducive environment for businesses to operate a 3 shift system 24/7 thereby, boosting the country’s economy and creating employment opportunities to absorb the teeming unemployed populace.
“I envisioned a 24 hour economy where hospitality facilities, filling stations, construction companies, garbage collection companies, mining and extractive industries, agro processing industry, harbors and ports, financial services, digital startups and BPOs will operate preferably a 3 shift system 24/7 in an atmosphere of safety and security, heightened security needed for a 24-hour economy will also provide for safer cities and thereby, in effect, boost tourism,” he stated.
“The 24-hour economy I proposed is for jobs and more jobs and to render it simply, everyone will have an opportunity to work”.
Subscribing to the policy will be voluntary but participating businesses will enjoy tax incentives and discounted electricity tariffs, the former leader further explained.
This, Mr. Mahama believes, will attract many businesses to subscribe to the policy.
“This 24-hour economy I proposed will be voluntary. It will not be imposed. Businesses will be encourage to sign up with tax cities provided for them and enhanced security and lower electricity tarrifs after peak hours.
Special meters will be employed to provide what’s known as time of use tariffs to deliver cheaper power to such businesses during especially the hours of 10 am and 6am”.
But the benefits of this policy, the NDC flagbearer asserted, go beyond job creation.
He said, as part of the implementation of the policy, security in the country will be enhanced to ensure a secured atmosphere for businesses.
He thinks this will reduce crime rate and increase safety of Ghanaians.
John Mahama is currently embarking on a nationwide tour dubbed #BuildingGhanaTour as party prepares to recapture power in 2024.
