By Stanley Kwabla Arku
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry (GhCCI), Cherry Emmanuel, says the government’s ambition to roll out a 24-hour economy can only be realised if the private sector is given a clear and active role in shaping the agenda.
Speaking to journalists after the launch of the Ghana Investment and Trade Week (GITW) in Accra, Mr. Emmanuel stressed that while the idea of a 24-hour economy is commendable, it cannot succeed without a structured roadmap that defines the contribution and responsibilities of the private sector.
“We want to help shape government policy — including the 24-hour economy,” he said. “But a 24-hour economy can only be materialised if the private sector has a clear route to direct the government. We must be fully involved and not treated as spectators.”
He added that the private sector stands ready to support the initiative, but that support must be backed by engagement, consultation, and a proper understanding of what is required to operate around the clock.
“The 24-hour economy cannot just be a slogan. It needs planning, coordination, infrastructure, and serious input from industry players. Government must not implement this in isolation,” he added.
Mr. Emmanuel was speaking on the sidelines of the Ghana Investment and Trade Week, a three-day business fair organised by MIE Group in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry. The event brings together investors and businesses from Asia, the Middle East, and Europe to explore Ghana’s investment potential.
He used the platform to call for practical steps to address Ghana’s housing deficit, which is estimated at over 1.8 million units. He said part of the effort to grow a 24-hour economy must include addressing key national challenges such as housing.
“Most workers don’t even have a place to lay their heads, yet they’re paying pension. Why should they wait till retirement or death before benefiting from it? These are the realities we must deal with,” he said.
According to him, if the government is serious about transforming the economy to operate 24 hours a day, then housing, infrastructure, labour arrangements, and social protection systems must all be considered.