The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, Emmanuel Cherry, has called for greater private sector involvement in the implementation of the 24-hour economy proposed by the government, warning that the initiative will remain a dream if industry players are sidelined.
Speaking at the Ghana Investment and Trade Week 2025 summit in Accra, Cherry stressed that the success of the ambitious policy hinges on smart infrastructural planning and stronger collaboration between government and private stakeholders.
“The 24-hour economy can only be realised if the private sector has a direct role to play. Government alone cannot carry this vision without our full involvement,” he said.
The summit which began on Wednesday, 2nd July, 2025, was held under the theme “Constructing Prosperity: Advancing Industrial Growth Through Smart Infrastructural Planning.”
It brought together both local and international investors seeking opportunities in Ghana’s infrastructure sector.
Cherry used the platform to shine a spotlight on Ghana’s persistent housing deficit, which currently exceeds 1.8 million units.
He stated that to keep up with demand, at least 250,000 housing units must be built each year—something he says cannot happen without policy reforms that allow private developers better access to financing.
“Many Ghanaians are contributing to pension schemes, yet they struggle to afford a place to live. Why can’t we explore ways for workers to benefit from their pensions while they’re still active and productive?” he asked.
The Chamber CEO also drew attention to the country’s poor road network, which he described as a major contributor to high food prices and post-harvest losses.
“Our market women struggle to transport food from farm gates due to bad roads. By the time the goods reach urban markets, much of it has gone bad—and that cost is passed on to consumers,” he said.
On the feasibility of the 24-hour economy, Cherry believes the policy is achievable if rolled out in phases, beginning with Ghana’s major urban centres. He also called on stakeholders to propose alternative policies that would support the government’s broader “Big Push” industrialisation agenda.
“If we invest in energy, roads and utilities, the private sector will take full advantage. It’s not just about the government. Together, we can build a Ghana where prices are stable, infrastructure is efficient, and families can truly enjoy the benefits of national development,” he added.
Report by Sandra Akimi for Asaase News in Greater Accra
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