In recent times, an unexpected conversation has emerged in Ghanaian discourse – the operating hours of businesses. The seemingly mundane aspect of opening times has taken on a political hue, prompting debates and considerations about the country’s economic framework. Places like Osu and Bantama in Kumasi bear testimony to the burgeoning demand for round-the-clock services, leading establishments to adopt 24-hour schedules.
It’s crucial to underscore that Ghana operates within a capitalist system, not a communist regime. Here, decisions pivot on the fundamental principles of business – the interplay between demand and supply. The marketplace dynamics, governed by these principles, dictate operational hours and services.
Broadly, businesses fall into three categories: essential services, manufacturing/industry, and commercial services encompassing shops and offices. In the West, while they champion a 24-hour economy, commercial services generally do not extend their operational hours into the night. This practice isn’t poised to change drastically in Ghana, regardless of shifts in political leadership.
Essential services such as law enforcement, healthcare facilities, and emergency response units function round-the-clock, mirroring the global norm, and Ghana adheres to this standard.
Industries like Nestlé, Kasapreko, or Sawmills in Kumasi operate non-stop to meet the demands generated by customer orders. This trend is consistent across industries worldwide, grounded in market demands rather than political mandates.
Crucially, business decisions are predominantly the domain of entrepreneurs, driven by profit motives rather than political affiliations. Contrary to common perception, expanding into a 24-hour economy doesn’t necessarily solve Ghana’s unemployment conundrum. Even if the government decides to employ thousands for night shifts, funding their salaries becomes an immediate challenge, potentially straining an already burdened financial structure. Such moves could lead to increased taxation or borrowing, adversely impacting industries and private businesses.
Experts emphasize Ghana’s need for agricultural self-sufficiency. However, farming operations predominantly occur during daylight hours, sparking discussions about how to efficiently process increased agricultural outputs. The crux lies in boosting agricultural productivity and post-harvest processing, which could ultimately drive substantial economic change.
Despite this, the government struggles to mobilize road contractors for nighttime work, an area well within its jurisdiction. Consequently, citizens face disruptions during daytime activities, highlighting a pressing need for efficient governance and practical solutions.
As Ghana gears up for the 2024 elections, the focus should pivot from rhetorical promises to pragmatic solutions. The youth, as a driving force for change, deserve concrete strategies that address societal challenges, steering away from ornamental policies. Initiatives targeting agriculture, infrastructural efficiency, and nuanced economic strategies hold the potential to drive meaningful transformation in Ghana’s socio-economic landscape.
