Friday, 06 February

Parliament has given final approval to the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, 2025

News
The 24-hour economy was a major campaign promise of John Mahama's going into the 2024 elections which returned him to power as president

Parliament has given final approval to the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, 2025, marking a major milestone in the implementation of one of the flagship initiatives of the John Mahama-led administration.

The approval followed lengthy discussions and exchanges between members on both sides of the House, with Majority and Minority caucuses strongly debating the merits and implications of the proposed law.

First introduced to Parliament toward the end of 2025, the legislation seeks to reposition Ghana’s economy to operate on a continuous, round-the-clock basis. It establishes a dedicated 24-Hour Economy Authority to act as the main body responsible for coordinating the nationwide rollout of the policy.

The authority will be responsible for harmonising efforts between state institutions and private sector players, attracting investment, and ensuring the availability of regulatory frameworks and infrastructure needed to support sustained economic activity beyond traditional working hours.

The 24-hour economy agenda formed a central part of the NDC’s campaign message ahead of the 2024 general elections and is being promoted by the government as a strategy to expand employment opportunities, enhance productivity, and stimulate overall economic development.

During deliberations, Minority MPs expressed reservations about the proposal, cautioning that poor execution could lead to security risks and potential disruptions to daily life.

In response, the Majority caucus maintained that the anticipated gains justify the policy, assuring the House that appropriate security arrangements and regulatory safeguards will accompany its implementation.

With the bill now passed, steps are expected to begin toward the establishment of the authority and the operationalisation of the 24-hour economy framework.

Source: classfmonline.com/Zita Okwang