Value addition, 24-hour financial environment key to Ghana’s reset time table — Mahama – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

Ghana stands at a pivotal moment in its economic history. In a bold move to reshape the nation’s financial landscape, President John Mahama has introduced a comprehensive plan focused on value addition, industrialization, and a 24-hour financial environment. This strategic initiative, unveiled at the 77th Annual New Year School and Conference at the University of Ghana, aims to transition Ghana from a raw material exporter to a diversified, resilient economy capable of generating millions of quality jobs and sustainable growth. The plan is not merely a political slogan but a structured transformation strategy designed to build a more inclusive and prosperous nation.

Key Points

Background

The Need for Economic Transformation

Ghana’s economy has long been characterized by its reliance on the export of raw materials such as gold, cocoa, and oil. While these resources have contributed significantly to national revenue, the country has faced challenges including economic volatility, limited job creation, and vulnerability to global price fluctuations. Recognizing these structural weaknesses, the government under President Mahama has identified the need for a fundamental shift towards a more diversified and value-added economic model.

The Annual New Year School and Conference

The 77th Annual New Year School and Conference, organized by the University of Ghana, serves as a critical platform for policymakers, academics, civil society actors, and development partners to deliberate on national challenges and chart pathways for sustainable development. This year’s theme, “Ghana’s Economic Transformation and Long-Term Development Priorities,” aligns perfectly with the government’s reset agenda, providing a forum for robust discussions on how to stabilize the economy and expand employment opportunities.

Analysis

Value Addition: A Catalyst for Industrial Growth

The cornerstone of President Mahama’s economic reset is the emphasis on value addition. By processing raw materials domestically before export, Ghana can significantly increase its earnings, create more jobs, and develop a more sophisticated industrial base. The policy requiring value addition to minerals, petroleum, and agricultural products is expected to stimulate investment in processing facilities, enhance technological capabilities, and foster innovation across various sectors.

The 24-Hour Financial Environment: Beyond a Slogan

The concept of a 24-hour financial environment is central to the government’s vision. This initiative aims to extend economic productivity beyond traditional daylight hours by improving infrastructure, supporting logistics, and promoting agro-processing. The goal is to create a dynamic and competitive economy that operates continuously, thereby maximizing output and efficiency. This approach is not merely rhetorical; it represents a strategic shift towards building a resilient and inclusive economic system.

Economic Stabilization: A Foundation for Growth

The government’s early reforms have yielded measurable economic gains. The Ghanaian cedi has emerged as one of the world’s best-performing currencies in 2025, a testament to effective macroeconomic management. Inflation has fallen from 23.8% at the end of 2024 to just above 5% by the end of 2025, while public debt has reduced from above 66% of GDP to approximately 45%. These achievements provide a stable foundation for the broader transformation agenda, enhancing investor confidence and creating a conducive environment for sustainable growth.

Challenges and Considerations

While the vision is ambitious and well-articulated, its successful implementation will require addressing several challenges. These include improving infrastructure, ensuring energy security, enhancing the business environment, and building human capital. Additionally, effective governance, transparency, and stakeholder engagement will be crucial to maintaining public trust and ensuring that the benefits of economic transformation are widely shared.

Practical Advice

For Businesses and Investors

• Invest in Value Addition: Explore opportunities in processing and manufacturing sectors to capitalize on the government’s policy shift.
• Adopt Technology: Leverage technology to enhance productivity and efficiency in line with the 24-hour financial environment.
• Focus on Sustainability: Align business practices with sustainable development goals to ensure long-term viability.

For Policymakers

• Strengthen Infrastructure: Prioritize investments in transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure to support industrial growth.
• Enhance Education and Training: Develop skills relevant to modern industries to build a capable workforce.
• Promote Transparency: Ensure transparent and accountable governance to build investor and public confidence.

For the General Public

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of government policies and initiatives to understand how they may impact your livelihood.
• Participate Actively: Engage in public discourse and contribute to the national development agenda.
• Support Local Industries: Choose locally produced goods to foster economic growth and job creation.

FAQ

Conclusion

President John Mahama’s vision for Ghana’s economic reset through value addition and a 24-hour financial environment represents a bold and necessary step towards building a more resilient, diversified, and inclusive economy. By shifting from raw material exports to industrial production and knowledge-based enterprises, Ghana can unlock its full potential and secure a prosperous future for its citizens. The recent economic gains provide a solid foundation for this transformation, but sustained effort, strategic investments, and inclusive governance will be essential to realize this ambitious vision. As Ghana embarks on this journey, the collective commitment of all stakeholders will be crucial in turning this vision into reality.

Sources

• University of Ghana, 77th Annual New Year School and Conference Proceedings, 2026.
• Ghana Statistical Service, Inflation and GDP Reports, 2024-2025.
• Bank of Ghana, Currency Performance Reports, 2025.
• Government of Ghana, Economic Reset Policy Documents, 2026.
• Life Pulse Daily, Breaking News: Value addition, 24-hour financial environment key to Ghana’s reset time table — Mahama, 2026.