Road infrastructure boost for Northern Region under 24-Hour Economy — Minister
The Northern Region is set to benefit from major road infrastructure projects under the government’s 24-hour economy policy, the Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, has said.
He explained that the Tamale–Bolgatanga highway would be upgraded into a dual carriageway, while other feeder roads would be worked on to link farming communities to market centres and processing plants.
That, he said, would ensure the smooth implementation of the 24-hour economy initiative.
Mr John said this in a speech read on his behalf by the Regional Coordinating Director, Mumuni Damma, at the 22nd Regional Annual General Meeting of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) in Tamale.
The annual meeting, which was on the theme: “Creating a Conducive Business Environment for Industrial Competitiveness: The 24-Hour Economy in Perspective,” brought together industry players to deliberate on how to effectively maximise opportunities in the 24-hour economy initiative.
Completion of project
In his address, Mr John indicated that plans were far advanced for the completion of the Tamale International Airport cargo terminal, which would facilitate the export of fresh produce and processed goods directly from the region.
He further indicated that expanding a reliable power supply, including renewable energy options, was critical to enable industries to operate without interruption.
“The 24-hour economy is not just about keeping shops or offices open late into the night. It is about restructuring our economy to function efficiently around the clock to create jobs and raise productivity,” he said.
The regional minister called on traditional leaders to support industrial growth by making lands accessible for investments, as well as take full advantage of the opportunities the 24-hour economy presents.
The Chief Executive Officer of AGI, Seth Twum Akwaboah, said the association was actively engaging the government at all levels to address key issues affecting businesses.
He emphasised that the AGI was committed to contributing its quota to ensure the successful rollout of the 24-hour economy, particularly through value chain development that connects businesses in northern Ghana to larger markets.
The Northern Regional Chairman of AGI, Osman Sahanoon Kulendi, acknowledged the unique challenges businesses in the north faced, including limited infrastructure, access to capital, and underutilised resources, but expressed optimism that the 24-hour economy presents new possibilities.
