Bagbin Lights the Night Shift: Parliament to Pilot 24-Hour Economy Drive

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has unveiled plans to roll out the 24-hour economy policy within the Parliamentary Service, making Parliament the first institution to adopt this ambitious initiative aimed at enhancing national productivity and curbing unemployment.

The move responds to increased workloads among parliamentary staff, particularly after a shift in the House’s sitting hours—from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.—led to added pressure on administrative and support teams.

Speaking on Thursday, June 26, during the presentation of the final policy document by representatives from the Office of the President, Bagbin explained that the policy would extend working hours, with some staff starting at 8:00 a.m. and potentially working as late as 10:00 or 11:00 p.m.

“This will not only accommodate the rising workload but also open up more employment opportunities. The demand here is overwhelming,” Bagbin noted.

The national launch of the 24-hour economy initiative is set for Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

Goosie Tanoh, Presidential Advisor on the policy, emphasized the transformative nature of the initiative, highlighting its three foundational pillars: transforming production, improving supply chains and markets, and enhancing human capital.

The policy will be driven by strategic sub-programmes, including:

• Grow 24 – advancing modern agriculture

• Make 24 – stimulating industrial and manufacturing sectors

• Connect 24 – streamlining logistics and distribution

• Aspire 24 – cultivating a national mindset centered on productivity

A cornerstone promise of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the 24-hour economy will first be implemented in Parliament before being expanded to other institutions across the country.