President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing gender inclusion and economic transformation through the 24-hour economy initiative. Speaking at the 12th Annual Governing Boards, Chief Directors, and Chief Executives Conference in Ho, the President highlighted two key pillars of his transformation agenda, gender equality and the 24-hour economy policy.
Addressing the gathering, President Mahama underscored that leadership transformation cannot be achieved without prioritizing gender balance in governance and public service. He noted that while women currently hold about 27% of leadership positions in Ghana’s public sector, more deliberate steps are needed to reach full equality.
“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 stated.
He described the appointment of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, as a historic milestone and a strong symbol of belief in women’s leadership capacity. According to him, her elevation goes beyond symbolism, as it demonstrates Ghana’s readiness to entrust women with the highest responsibilities in governance.
“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 said.
The President also directed all boards, councils, and chief executives to strictly comply 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 to the economy, President Mahama reiterated that the 24-hour economy program remains central to his administration’s transformation agenda. He explained that the initiative seeks to shift Ghana from a raw-materials-based economy to a productive, value-added, and globally competitive one.
“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 added that the initiative is designed to inject a new level of efficiency, innovation, and productivity into Ghana’s development model. He commended some public institutions, including the Passport Office and the Ports and Harbours Authority, for already integrating the 24-hour operation system even before the formal passage of the 24-Hour Economy Authority Bill currently before Parliament.
President Mahama concluded by calling on all government agencies and private sector partners to embrace both gender equity and the 24-hour work culture as vital instruments for Ghana’s sustainable growth and inclusive transformation.
By Bawa Musah
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