Mahama calls for gender equality and 24-hour economy drive: 1.7 million jobs targeted

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and accelerating economic transformation through the implementation of the 24-hour economy initiative.

Speaking at the 12th Annual Governing Boards, Chief Directors, and Chief Executives Conference held in Ho, President Mahama outlined two key pillars of his administration’s transformation agenda, gender inclusion and the 24-hour economy policy.

He emphasized that sustainable leadership transformation cannot be achieved without prioritizing gender balance in governance and public service. Currently, women occupy about 27% of leadership positions in Ghana’s public sector, a figure the President said must improve through deliberate policy action.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we cannot discuss leadership transformation without addressing gender inclusion. Women currently hold about 27% of leadership roles in Ghana’s public service. It’s a modest improvement, but one that highlights the need for further progress,” President Mahama said.

He described the appointment of Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Ghana’s first female Vice President, as a historic milestone and a strong demonstration of confidence in women’s leadership.

“Today, for the first time in our nation’s history, Ghana has a female Vice President, a woman of intellect, character, and unwavering dedication to public service. Her elevation serves as a powerful statement of belief in women’s ability to lead at the highest levels,” he added.

President Mahama directed all boards, councils, and chief executives to comply strictly with the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Act, 2024 (Act 1121), which mandates progressive gender representation, 30% by 2026, 35% by 2028, and 50% by 2030.

Turning his attention to the economy, the President reiterated that the 24-hour economy remains a central driver of his administration’s broader transformation agenda. He explained that the initiative is designed to transition Ghana from a raw-materials-based economy to one that is productive, value-added, and globally competitive.

“The 24-hour economy program represents a bold and pragmatic shift. Through its sub-programs, Grow 24, Make 24, Aspire 24, and Fund 24- we aim to optimize land, labor, capital, and time, boost industrial production, and generate over 1.7 million jobs within four years,” President Mahama declared.

He noted that the initiative would enhance efficiency, innovation, and productivity across both public and private sectors. The President commended institutions such as the Passport Office and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority for already adopting 24-hour operational systems ahead of the passage of the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill, currently before Parliament.

President Mahama concluded by urging all government agencies and private sector stakeholders to embrace both gender equity and the 24-hour work culture as essential tools for achieving sustainable growth and inclusive national transformation.

Read also…