Senior Presidential Staffer in Charge of Energy and Green Transition, Nana Yaa Jantuah, has reiterated that the success of the proposed 24-hour economy will depend heavily on the visibility, accessibility, and efficiency of regulatory bodies that support business operations across the country.
Speaking at a high-level business regulatory dialogue organized by the Institute for Liberty and Policy Innovation (ILAPI) at the Coconut Grove Hotel, Nana Yaa Jantuah emphasized that while government is committed to removing bottlenecks and eliminating administrative red tape, these efforts can only yield results when regulatory institutions actively support the process.
According to her, “the economy runs around businesses, and if businesses are to thrive under a 24-hour system, then regulatory bodies must make themselves visible, accessible, and easy to work with.”
Nana Yaa Jantuah noted that cumbersome licensing procedures, low visibility of regulatory agencies, and limited direct engagement with businesses have led many applicants to rely on middlemen, creating delays, extra costs, and the perception that business registration in Ghana is difficult.
“Whether it is 13 licenses or even 20, what matters is the clarity of the process,” she stressed. “Businesses need to know where to start, who to speak to, and what steps to follow. When people cannot find the institutions responsible for delivering these services, they resort to third parties.”
Government is therefore urging regulatory agencies to improve their outreach, engage directly with entrepreneurs, and provide simplified, user-friendly processes. One-on-one interactions, public education, and clearly defined service channels, they said, would help businesses navigate requirements without obstacles.
She further indicated that these reforms are critical to building the 24-hour economy, which aims to position Ghana as a competitive destination for investors while making business operations smoother for Ghanaians.
“It is the hope of President Mahama that regulatory institutions will thrive and fully support interventions that make Ghana work. We want the 24-hour economy to outlive the President, and this is being done in a properly structured and well-formulated manner,” Nana Yaa Jantuah stated.
Government envisions an economy operating in three shifts, similar to global models such as Dubai, where businesses run continuously, workers operate on flexible schedules, and productivity remains steady around the clock.
However, this vision, she added, depends on how easily businesses can start, operate, and expand.
“If a businessman comes to Ghana, he must be able to do business smoothly. The Ghanaian businessperson must also operate in an environment free of frustration. Regulatory bodies play a crucial role in making this a reality.”
Nana Yaa Jantuah also encouraged agencies and policy institutions to carry out research and submit findings to inform policy improvements, reinforcing its commitment to continuous reform.
With strengthened regulatory support and reduced bureaucratic barriers, she believes the 24-hour economy will not only be achievable but transformative for Ghana’s growth trajectory.
