A member of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) in the Bono East Region, Mr. Ebenezer Obiri, has praised the leadership of AGI for expressing readiness to support government’s proposed 24-hour economy policy, describing it as a major opportunity to drive industrial expansion, job creation, and overall national productivity.
Mr. Obiri was reacting to comments by the President of the Association of Ghana Industries, Mr. Kofi Nsiaw Pokua, published in the Daily Graphic, in which AGI signaled its willingness to partner government on the policy.
In an interview with Kwadwo Ofosu Baffoe (K.O.B), Mr. Ebenezer Obiri disclosed that, Ghana’s industrial sector has the potential to operate on a continuous basis if the right conditions are put in place.
“Our industries have the capacity to work 24 hours, but the environment must be enabling. At the moment, many factories are operating below capacity because of high production costs, weak supply chains, and limited access to affordable financing.”
He explained that without addressing these challenges, the full benefits of a 24-hour economy may be difficult to realize, despite the enthusiasm from the private sector.
He therefore called on government to prioritize critical investments in energy stability, transportation systems, security, and industrial infrastructure. He stressed that efficient ports, improved road networks, and a reliable power supply are essential to sustaining round-the-clock production.
“If power is unstable, roads are poor, and supply chains are weak, industries cannot run continuously, these are key foundations for a successful 24-hour economy.”
He further urged financial institutions to design flexible and affordable financing products to support businesses that are ready to expand operations under the proposed policy framework.
According to him, strong collaboration between government, industry players, and financial institutions will be crucial to translating the 24-hour economy vision into tangible economic growth.
Source: Elvisanokye.com / Kwadwo Ofosu Baffoe (K.O.B) ASTA FM 103.9 MHz