Dr Benjamin Anyagre, the General Secretary of the Ghana China Friendship Association (GHACHIFA), shared his perspective on the proposed 24-hour economy policy for Ghana.
He emphasized that for such a policy to succeed, it must be built on job choices and employment opportunities.
Dr Anyagre pointed out that Ghana had previously experienced a 24-hour economy, notably in places like the industrial city of Tema.
He attributed this success to a strong foundation for job creation, including industries, factories, and community-based service delivery activities.
He highlighted the importance of means of production, such as industries and factories, as prerequisites for a sustainable 24-hour economy.
Dr Anyagre referenced the industrialization growth in Ghana during the 1960s, citing Tema as the industrial hub with various factories and industries.
To achieve a well-packaged 24-hour economy in today's Ghana, Dr Anyagre suggested leveraging opportunities presented by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) initiated by China.
He noted that the BRI had benefited many countries globally, including African nations, by providing infrastructure development.
Dr Anyagre emphasized the potential of the BRI to create rail and road connectivity for agricultural zones in Ghana, promoting the growth of the agribusiness industry.
He pointed out that agricultural projects were part of the BRI, presenting an opportunity to enhance connectivity and boost the agricultural sector.
In contrast, Dr Anyagre criticized the IMF's structural adjustment programs, stating that they did not contribute positively to Ghana's economy.
He advocated for a shift towards the BRI, which he believes offers a “win-win engineering” for economic growth.
In conclusion, Dr Anyagre highlighted the positive impact of the Belt and Road Initiative, citing the example of Sentuo Oil Refinery in Tema, which, under the BRI, has created employment opportunities and contributed to economic growth.
