I. Introduction

The concept of dependency burden refers to the proportion of a population that is not part of the labour force, typically including the young (aged 0-14) and the elderly (aged 65+). In the context of Ghana, this demographic challenge is acute. According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), over 57% of the population is under the age of 25, positioning the country at a critical crossroads between demographic opportunity and potential socio-economic vulnerability. High dependency ratios, coupled with limited job opportunities and inadequate social safety nets, have resulted in significant socio-economic pressures. These pressures manifest in rising youth unemployment, increased incidences of social vices such as crime and substance abuse, and widespread mental health challenges.

The dependency burden in Ghana poses both demographic and socio-economic challenges. A growing youthful population without corresponding economic opportunities or educational integration leads to heightened risks of socio-economic disenfranchisement and instability. The World Bank reports that youth unemployment in Ghana stands at 14.7%, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive policies to address the consequences of underemployment and economic exclusion. In this context, the burden extends beyond economic constraints to social and mental well-being, with evidence suggesting that unemployment and economic stress are major contributors to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety as indicated by a 2023 World Health Organization (WHO) report.

In response to these socio-economic challenges, the NDC has proposed and will run a 24-hour economy policy in its next government aimed at leveraging Ghana’s youthful demographic advantage to promote continuous economic activity and productivity. This policy seeks to reduce unemployment, meaningfully engage the youth, and create a resilient economy capable of generating round-the-clock employment and services. By facilitating an environment of constant economic activity, the policy has the potential to indirectly mitigate the adverse effects of the dependency burden, including its socio-economic and mental health repercussions.

This article explores the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy as an indirect strategic intervention to Ghana’s dependency burden. It will examine how the policy addresses key challenges such as unemployment, social vices, and mental health issues while providing a foundation for sustainable economic growth and social stability.

II. Understanding Ghana’s Dependency Burden

As of 2024, Ghana’s population has reached an estimated 34.2 million, highlighting a significant demographic expansion. In 2021, the population was 30.8 million, with 16.2 million individuals actively employed. During that period, the dependency ratio was recorded at 0.64, meaning that every 100 working-age individuals supported around 64 dependents. However, the current demographic landscape presents further complexities: with 14.7% of the 2024 population estimated to be unemployed, about 5.03 million individuals are not participating in the workforce.

This rising unemployment, combined with a growing population, intensifies the economic strain on the active workforce. The significant dependency burden and the increasing number of unemployed individuals necessitate robust policy interventions to safeguard economic stability, optimize resource allocation, and ensure the provision of social services. Ghana’s evolving demographic profile calls for innovative strategies to reduce the dependency burden and build resilience within its labour force.

Besides, data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) indicates that over 37% of the population falls within the under-15 age category, resulting in a dependency ratio that places significant strain on the country’s labour force. The country’s demographic profile suggests both a latent opportunity and economic liability depending on the country’s policy direction. While a youthful population could become a catalyst for economic growth if properly harnessed, it also implies a considerable strain on social services, the labour market, and the broader economy if left unaddressed.

The latest Ghana Multidimensional Poverty Report from the GSS indicates that 7.3 million Ghanaians, representing 24.3% of the household population, are considered multidimensionally poor (multiple forms of deprivation that affect the quality of life beyond just income poverty).

In a country like Ghana, where over half of the population is youthful, there is a pressing need to transition from a natural resource-dependent model to one that is knowledge and service-driven. The World Bank indicates that Ghana’s unemployment rate, particularly among those aged 15 to 24, is persistently high, with underemployment and a lack of skilled job opportunities exacerbating the situation. This situation is indicative of a structural imbalance in the economy, driven by inadequate job creation in proportion to the burgeoning youth population.

Historically, Ghana’s economic structure has been heavily reliant on extractive industries such as gold and cocoa, creating a narrow base for employment opportunities. This reliance, combined with global market volatility, has rendered the country vulnerable to economic shocks. The consequence of such reliance extends beyond economic volatility to encompass social instability. High dependency ratios have been linked to higher levels of youth idleness, limited access to quality education and training, and an increase in socio-economic stressors that contribute to both social vices and mental health challenges.

The NDC’s 24-hour economy policy aims to address these challenges by creating a diversified, round-the-clock economy that leverages the country’s demographic advantage. By providing opportunities for skill acquisition, employment, and economic participation, the policy seeks to shift Ghana away from a dependency on extractive industries towards a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. This strategic paradigm shift is intended to mitigate the adverse socio-economic consequences of the dependency burden, enhancing both economic resilience and social stability in the long term.

III. Rippling Effects of the Dependency Burden

The dependency burden in Ghana is not merely a demographic issue but a multifaceted socio-economic challenge with widespread implications. A high dependency ratio—resulting from a large proportion of the population being classified as non-working dependents—directly contributes to unemployment, underemployment, and socio-economic instability. This burden creates a ripple effect, exacerbating various social issues such as crime, substance abuse, and corruption, while also impacting the mental health of vulnerable groups within society.

1. Unemployment and Underemployment: High dependency ratios are strongly correlated with high unemployment and underemployment levels. As indicated earlier, Ghana’s youth unemployment rate, particularly among individuals aged 15-24, stands at 14.7%. Moreover, many of those employed face underemployment, characterized by inadequate working hours, job insecurity, and mismatches between skill levels and job requirements. Such labour market conditions often lead to socio-economic disenfranchisement, contributing to increased youth idleness and feelings of frustration and exclusion from mainstream economic activities.
2. Prevalence of Social Vices: The socio-economic implications of Ghana’s dependency burden manifest in the proliferation of social vices, including crime, substance abuse, and corruption. The relationship between economic disenfranchisement and social deviance has been widely studied, with evidence pointing to a causal link between prolonged youth unemployment and increased rates of criminal activity. In Ghana, the consequences of high unemployment and a lack of economic opportunity have been linked to rising crime rates in urban centres, where the youth population is most concentrated. Substance abuse, particularly among unemployed and economically marginalized youth, has also become a growing public health concern, as noted by the Ministry of Health.
3. Mental Health Challenges Linked to Socio-Economic Stress: The WHO reports that financial stressors and prolonged unemployment are key contributors to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. The high dependency ratio in Ghana has exacerbated these stressors, particularly among the youth and economically marginalized groups. The lack of employment opportunities, coupled with socio-economic uncertainty, often leads to psychological distress, low self-esteem, and, in some cases, suicidal tendencies. Ghana’s National Health Policy acknowledges the increasing prevalence of mental health issues and the inadequacy of current mental health services to address them comprehensively.
4. Corruption as a Byproduct of Economic Disenfranchisement: High dependency ratios place immense pressure on the working-age population to support non-working dependents. When economic opportunities are scarce, individuals facing financial strain may resort to corrupt practices as a means of survival or to secure necessities. Moreover, limited access to employment and social support systems creates a fertile environment for bribery, nepotism, and other forms of corruption, as citizens often feel compelled to exploit informal networks or engage in unethical behaviour to gain access to resources.

To effectively address these issues, the 24-hour economy policy must incorporate specific measures to reduce the dependency burden while simultaneously strengthening institutional transparency. The policy’s emphasis on continuous economic activity and job creation can help alleviate the economic pressures that drive corrupt behaviour by providing stable employment and reducing economic disenfranchisement. Additionally, leveraging digital infrastructure to enhance real-time monitoring and accountability in sectors prone to corruption, such as customs, ports, and financial services, can create an environment of greater transparency. By targeting both the root causes of economic disenfranchisement and institutional weaknesses, the policy has the potential to mitigate the ripple effects of corruption and promote good governance.

In light of these interconnected challenges, the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy aims to mitigate the multidimensional effects of the dependency burden by promoting continuous economic activity, expanding employment opportunities, and reducing idleness. By addressing the root causes of social vices and economic disenfranchisement, the policy seeks to create a more stable and inclusive socio-economic environment, thereby alleviating the socio-economic and mental health challenges associated with the dependency burden.

IV. The NDC’s 24-Hour Economy Policy

1. Overview of the Policy and Its Key Components: The NDC’s 24-hour economy policy is a forward-thinking initiative aimed at transforming Ghana’s economic landscape through continuous economic engagement. The policy is built on the premise that round-the-clock operations across various sectors can drive productivity, create employment opportunities, and foster inclusive growth. The key components include expanding digital infrastructure, enhancing public safety and security, incentivizing businesses to extend their operational hours, and implementing a three-shift work model to ensure economic activities are sustained continuously.
2. Strategic Objectives: Promoting Continuous Economic Activity and Job Creation: The central objective of the 24-hour economy policy is to promote continuous economic activity to address high levels of unemployment and underemployment. By leveraging a three-shift work model, the policy aims to maximize productivity and resource utilization while creating new employment opportunities. It seeks to engage Ghana’s large youthful demographic in key sectors such as agro-processing, manufacturing, healthcare, and digital services, ultimately reducing dependency on traditional sectors like mining and improving economic resilience.
3. Greater Emphasis on Transition Strategies: To successfully shift from a resource-dependent economy to a knowledge-based and service-driven one, the policy emphasizes the need for strategic interventions. This includes targeted investments in education, vocational training, digital literacy, and technological innovation. The policy proposes establishing skill development programs, innovation hubs, and partnerships with educational institutions to align curricula with industry demands. In the short term, the focus would be on capacity-building in key sectors, while long-term strategies would involve encouraging entrepreneurship, research and development initiatives, and public-private collaborations to facilitate a smooth economic transition.
4. Incentives for Businesses: The NDC’s policy framework includes several incentive packages to encourage businesses to adopt a 24-hour operational model. These incentives include tax relief for companies extending their hours, access to cheaper electricity through Time of Use (ToU) tariffs, and financing support for strategic industries such as agro-processing and manufacturing. The goal is to lower operational costs, enhance competitiveness, and increase profitability for participating businesses. This strategy is essential to overcoming energy and cost challenges that often deter businesses from expanding their operational hours.
5. More Data on Financial Feasibility and Resource Allocation: A critical aspect of the policy’s success is its financial feasibility and effective resource allocation. The policy requires clear estimates of the expected costs for infrastructure improvements, business incentives, security enhancements, and digital systems. Identifying potential funding sources, such as public-private partnerships, foreign investments, and development grants, is key. Additionally, exploring innovative financing options like green bonds for renewable energy projects or impact investment funds for social infrastructure would help diversify funding channels. A transparent breakdown of budget priorities and projected returns on investment would build credibility and appeal to investors and stakeholders.

Sectors Targeted for 24-Hour Operations: The NDC has strategically identified key sectors where round-the-clock operations can have the greatest impact. These sectors include:

• Agro-Processing: Enhancing value addition in agriculture to boost exports and employment.
• Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: Ensuring continuous production and access to healthcare services.
• Retail and Financial Services: Extending business and banking hours to meet varying customer needs and align with global time zones.
• Transportation and Logistics: Expanding transportation services to facilitate 24-hour business activities and public access to essential services.
• Digital Startups: Supporting continuous innovation and service delivery in the digital and technology sectors to boost economic competitiveness.
• Manufacturing: Increasing productivity and output in manufacturing industries through extended operational hours, creating jobs and reducing idle resources.
• Construction: Facilitating infrastructure development by enabling around-the-clock construction activities to expedite urban and rural development projects.
• Sanitation and Waste Management: Ensuring continuous waste management services to improve public health and maintain cleaner environments in high-density urban areas.

By targeting these sectors, the policy aims to drive a broad-based economic shift, reduce dependence on traditional industries, and create new opportunities for skill development, technology adoption, and global competitiveness.

V. The Role of the 24-Hour Economy in Mitigating Social Vices

The NDC’s 24-hour economy policy is designed not only to stimulate economic growth through direct employment but also to address several underlying social challenges by promoting continuous economic engagement. The policy’s indirect impact on reducing social vices such as crime, substance abuse, and corruption can be seen through the mechanisms of employment generation, economic empowerment, and increased transparency. By creating a stable and conducive environment for productive activities, the 24-hour economy targets the root causes of social vices, including economic disenfranchisement and idleness.

A. Employment Generation and Reduction of Youth Unemployment and Idleness
The NDC’s 24-hour economy policy prioritizes employment creation as a fundamental strategy for addressing youth idleness and reducing social vices. Research has shown that prolonged unemployment and economic inactivity are key drivers of social deviance, particularly among the youth. By introducing multiple work shifts and expanding job opportunities across sectors such as agro-processing, manufacturing, and healthcare, the policy aims to engage a larger portion of the population in productive activities. Empirical evidence from countries like the United Kingdom, which has a well-established night-time economy, indicates that continuous economic activities can significantly reduce unemployment and related social challenges.

B. Economic Empowerment as a Deterrent to Crime and Substance Abuse
Economic empowerment plays a crucial role in mitigating crime and substance abuse, which are often linked to socio-economic disenfranchisement. By providing stable employment and income opportunities, the 24-hour economy policy seeks to uplift economically marginalized individuals, reducing their inclination towards negative coping mechanisms. Studies in socio-economically comparable regions highlight that increased employment and income stability correlate with a decline in crime rates and substance-related offences. The policy’s emphasis on economic inclusion and job creation aligns with the principle that empowered communities are less likely to engage in deviant behaviours.

C. Corruption Reduction through Increased Transparency and Continuous Monitoring

One of the indirect benefits of the 24-hour economy is the potential reduction in corruption through increased transparency and real-time monitoring. Continuous economic activities necessitate extended oversight mechanisms, particularly in high-risk sectors such as customs, ports, and financial services. By implementing digital infrastructure and round-the-clock monitoring systems, the policy aims to reduce opportunities for corrupt practices. Enhanced transparency can strengthen public trust and contribute to improved governance, as evidenced by similar policies in countries like Estonia, which has successfully leveraged digital systems to combat corruption and enhance institutional integrity.

D. Case Studies of Similar Policies in Other Countries

• United Kingdom: London’s night-time economy policy has been instrumental in reducing crime rates and revitalizing urban centres. The policy’s emphasis on extended business hours and economic inclusivity has created substantial employment opportunities for youth and marginalized communities, reducing economic pressures that often lead to social deviance.
• Australia: Sydney’s 24-hour economy initiative has demonstrated how extended business operations can boost employment, reduce street violence, and foster a safer urban environment. The policy’s success is attributed to a holistic approach that combines economic incentives, infrastructure development, and enhanced law enforcement.
• Kenya: Although still in its developmental stage, discussions around a 24-hour economy in Kenya highlight similar goals of addressing unemployment, improving public safety, and enhancing transparency through continuous economic activity.

These examples provide valuable insights into the potential of the 24-hour economy to address the root causes of social vices by promoting economic inclusion, stability, and institutional transparency.

VI. The Indirect Role of the 24-Hour Economy in Enhancing Mental Health

Besides its main objective to drive economic growth, the 24-hour economy policy indirectly addresses a myriad of socio-economic issues including mental health challenges facing Ghana. Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders, have been closely linked to socioeconomic conditions.

According to WHO, 24% of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa experiences some form of mental illness, with economic pressures being a key contributing factor. The Ghana Health Service reported in 2023 that approximately 21.6% of our population suffers from various mental health conditions, including depression, which accounts for over 12.3% of the cases. Even though the NDC’s 24-hour policy may not directly target these challenges, the policy will address them by promoting continuous economic activity, expanding access to essential services, and enhancing public infrastructure and safety.

1. Alleviating Economic Stressors: Economic stress caused by unemployment and financial instability is a primary driver of mental health issues in Ghana. The GSS’s 2022 report on labour markets revealed that the national unemployment rate stood at 13.4%, with youth unemployment reaching 19.7%. Prolonged unemployment is closely linked to increased cases of depression and anxiety. The economic drain caused by high unemployment in Ghana is substantial. According to the World Bank, in 2021 alone, Ghana lost an estimated $3.4 billion in potential GDP due to underemployment and high youth unemployment. This loss, combined with the growing population, presents a significant challenge to Ghana’s socio-economic stability.
   Studies from countries with similar policies, such as Japan and South Korea, have shown that stable employment opportunities contribute to reduced levels of depression and anxiety. For instance, in Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare reported a 15% reduction in depression cases among the youth within a decade of implementing the 24-hour economy model.
   The NDC’s 24-hour economy policy seeks to create a more inclusive labour market by introducing three-shift work models across various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and digital services. This expansion could potentially add 120,000 new jobs annually, according to projections from the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER).
2. Improving Access to Healthcare and Essential Services: Inadequate access to healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved areas, remains a persistent challenge in Ghana. The Ministry of Health estimates that over 43% of the population lacks access to essential healthcare services, including mental health support. The 24-hour economy policy envisions an expansion of healthcare services to operate round-the-clock, thereby ensuring continuous availability of mental health support and emergency medical care. Evidence from the United States shows that continuous healthcare access significantly reduces the mortality rate from mental health crises by 18%, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
   Similarly, the UK's National Health Service (NHS) data highlights that 24-hour emergency services help reduce the risk of suicide by 22% when immediate care is accessible. The NDC’s approach aligns with these international best practices in expanding healthcare access, ensuring a comprehensive approach to mental well-being.
   Poor mental health in Ghana contributes to significant economic losses. The Mental Health Authority of Ghana estimates that untreated mental illnesses cost the nation around 7% of GDP annually, translating to approximately $2.1 billion lost in economic productivity in 2022 alone. This figure underscores the economic burden of inadequate mental health services and highlights the urgent need for policies that expand healthcare access.
3. Enhancing Community Safety and Infrastructure: Community safety and the built environment play a vital role in shaping public mental health. The NDC’s policy emphasizes improving public infrastructure, including street lighting, transportation networks, and security systems in high-traffic areas. A survey by the Ghana Police Service in 2022 indicated that 65% of respondents identified poor street lighting and inadequate security systems as major contributors to rising crime rates. The policy's goal of enhancing these aspects aims to create safer and more secure urban environments.
   Research from the National Institute for Health and Welfare in Finland found that well-lit and secure public spaces reduce crime rates by 20% and fear of crime by 32%. This leads to increased social interactions, fostering a stronger sense of community and contributing positively to mental health outcomes in Ghanaian cities.
   The economic cost of crime to the Ghanaian economy is estimated to be around $1.6 billion annually, according to a 2021 study by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS). This figure includes losses related to property damage, healthcare costs for victims, and the impact on businesses. By enhancing public infrastructure and safety, the NDC’s policy seeks to mitigate these losses while promoting a more secure environment for businesses and residents.
4. Balancing Economic Productivity with Employee Well-Being: While the policy aims to promote round-the-clock economic activity, it also recognizes the importance of safeguarding the well-being of employees. The NDC’s policy framework includes guidelines for fair labour practices, such as mandatory rest periods, healthcare benefits, and access to mental health services for workers. A survey by the International Labour Organization (ILO) indicates that 46% of employees in countries with unregulated work hours reported experiencing chronic stress and anxiety.
   Germany’s workplace regulations serve as a useful reference. In Germany, the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health found that structured shift systems and employee support programs lead to a 25% increase in job satisfaction and a 30% reduction in work-related stress among employees. The cost of absenteeism and reduced productivity due to employee burnout in Ghana is estimated at over $900 million annually, according to a 2023 report by the Ghana Employers Association. This emphasizes the need for policies that balance economic growth with employee well-being.

The 24-hour economy policy proposed by the NDC has the potential to indirectly enhance mental health by addressing economic, social, and infrastructural factors that contribute to psychological distress. By expanding employment opportunities, improving healthcare access, and promoting community safety, the policy creates a supportive environment for both economic growth and public mental well-being.

VII. Policy Recommendations for Effective Implementation

The successful implementation of the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy hinges not only on promoting round-the-clock economic activities but also on the establishment of robust policy frameworks, strategic infrastructure development, and sustained stakeholder engagement. To achieve its intended impact, the policy must be supported by comprehensive measures that ensure economic inclusivity, workforce well-being, and sustained productivity. This section outlines key policy recommendations for maximizing the effectiveness of the 24-hour economy.

1. Establishing Policy Frameworks and Supportive Legislation: A key component of the 24-hour economy’s success is the establishment of clear and supportive legislative frameworks. The next NDC government will enact a new Employment Act that regulates working hours, employee rights, safety protocols, and the terms of three-shift work models. This Act should include provisions for mandatory rest periods, fair remuneration, and access to healthcare for employees participating in round-the-clock operations. Additionally, tax incentives and regulatory measures should be introduced to encourage businesses to transition to 24-hour operations, particularly in strategic sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and digital services.
2. Strengthening Mental Health and Social Support Systems: While the primary focus of the 24-hour economy is economic productivity, the policy should also integrate measures to strengthen mental health and social support systems. This includes establishing dedicated mental health units within public healthcare facilities and creating employee assistance programs in key industries. Additionally, raising awareness of mental health issues and reducing stigma is essential to ensuring that workers feel comfortable seeking support when needed. International examples, such as the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) model, demonstrate that accessible and integrated mental health services are crucial for maintaining workforce well-being and productivity.
3. Encouraging Public-Private Partnerships: The successful transition to a 24-hour economy requires significant investments in infrastructure, security, and digital capabilities. To achieve this, the government should foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) that bring together private-sector investment, technological expertise, and government oversight. These partnerships can play a key role in financing essential infrastructure such as transport networks, digital connectivity, and energy systems. PPPs have been successfully implemented in several emerging economies, such as Kenya’s road and energy projects, to enhance public infrastructure and service delivery.
4. Stakeholder Engagement and Institutional Roles: Successful implementation of the 24-hour economy policy requires clear engagement and defined roles for all stakeholders. The government must set up a legislative framework, provide oversight, and coordinate efforts through a dedicated inter-ministerial task force. The private sector should actively participate in shaping incentives and operational standards, while civil society and labour unions should represent workers' interests and ensure fair labour practices. Local communities and municipal authorities play a key role in public safety, infrastructure improvements, and community projects. By clearly defining these roles, the policy can foster collaboration, transparency, and public trust.
5. Implementing Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms: Continuous monitoring and evaluation are vital for ensuring that the 24-hour economy policy remains adaptive and responsive to emerging challenges. The government should establish a dedicated oversight body, such as an Accelerated Economic Development Council, to track the policy’s impact on employment, economic growth, and social well-being. Regular stakeholder consultations involving businesses, labour unions, and civil society organizations can provide valuable feedback and contribute to refining the policy framework. Additionally, data-driven analysis of the policy’s outcomes should guide any necessary adjustments to legislative measures, incentive structures, and enforcement mechanisms.
   By adopting these recommendations, the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy can be effectively implemented to achieve its intended goals of reducing dependency burden, expanding economic opportunities, and promoting social and mental well-being. An inclusive and adaptive policy framework will ensure that the benefits of continuous economic activity are broadly shared across all segments of society.

VIII. Potential Challenges and Criticisms of the 24-Hour Economy Policy

The NDC’s 24-hour economy policy presents a forward-looking strategy aimed at transforming Ghana’s economic landscape and addressing key socio-economic challenges. However, like any ambitious policy initiative, the implementation of a 24-hour economy is not without its potential challenges and criticisms. This section examines the primary concerns and suggests strategies to mitigate these issues.

1. Risks to Work-Life Balance and Workforce Well-Being: One of the main criticisms of a 24-hour economy is its potential to negatively impact work-life balance and employee well-being, especially for individuals who may take on multiple jobs. Extended work hours and multiple shifts can lead to increased stress, physical exhaustion, and diminished personal time, particularly if labour regulations and employee support mechanisms are inadequate. Research conducted by the ILO indicates that irregular work schedules can contribute to health problems such as sleep disorders, cardiovascular issues, and mental fatigue. Therefore, a 24-hour economy must be accompanied by strict labour standards that protect workers’ health and promote work-life balance. Policies must enforce mandatory rest periods, limit excessive overtime, and provide access to mental health services.
2. Security and Safety Concerns in a Continuously Active Economy: A continuously active economy requires robust security infrastructure to ensure the safety of workers, businesses, and the general public. Ghana’s current security and policing capacity must be strengthened to address the increased risk of crime and safety incidents during extended business hours. Studies have shown that poorly secured environments in extended-hour economies can lead to heightened risks of theft, violence, and exploitation, particularly in sectors like transportation, retail, and hospitality. Therefore, investments in public safety infrastructure, including enhanced street lighting, law enforcement patrols, and surveillance systems, are crucial. Collaborations between the government, private security firms, and community watch groups should also be explored to bolster security.
3. Infrastructure Gaps and Energy Reliability Issues: One of the most pressing challenges in implementing a 24-hour economy is the adequacy of existing infrastructure and the reliability of energy supply. Continuous business operations require robust infrastructure, including reliable electricity, efficient transportation networks, and digital connectivity. Ghana has experienced recurrent power outages in the past, and these energy reliability issues could pose significant challenges to the sustainability of round-the-clock business activities. To address this, the policy must prioritize investments in renewable energy, grid stability, and public transport improvements. Furthermore, the introduction of time-of-use (ToU) electricity tariffs for businesses could incentivize energy efficiency and cost-effective operations during non-peak hours.
4. Address Sustainability and Environmental Considerations: To manage the environmental impact of the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy, sustainability measures must be integrated to align economic growth with environmental protection. The policy should prioritize renewable energy investments and energy-efficient technologies to reduce dependency on non-renewable resources and stabilize the energy supply for extended operations. Introducing Time of Use (ToU) tariffs can help businesses optimize energy use during off-peak hours.
   Furthermore, promoting sustainable practices in key sectors, like waste reduction in manufacturing and recycling initiatives in construction, will minimize environmental footprints. Emphasizing eco-friendly materials and circular economy principles across industries can help reduce waste and conserve resources. Strong regulatory frameworks and environmental monitoring systems will be essential for enforcing standards and ensuring compliance.
   By incorporating these strategies, the policy aims to foster economic growth while protecting natural resources and achieving long-term sustainability goals.
5. Strategies to Address and Mitigate These Challenges: To effectively address these potential challenges, the NDC’s policy framework should incorporate a multifaceted approach that balances economic productivity with social and environmental considerations. Key strategies include:

• Comprehensive Regulatory Framework: Establishing a regulatory framework that enforces labour standards, workplace safety, and health guidelines. This could involve consultations with labour unions, civil society organizations, and industry representatives to ensure inclusivity in policy design.
• Public Safety and Security Investments: Strengthening public safety infrastructure through targeted investments in law enforcement, public transport, and urban infrastructure. Additionally, implementing community policing models and expanding surveillance capabilities in high-risk areas can enhance safety.
• Infrastructure Development and Energy Reforms: Developing a phased infrastructure improvement plan to address key gaps in energy supply, road networks, and digital services. Investing in renewable energy solutions and expanding broadband connectivity should be prioritized to support business operations in underserved areas.
• Public-Private Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Encouraging collaboration between the public and private sectors to leverage resources, expertise, and technology. This can include partnerships to develop innovative security solutions, renewable energy projects, and transport initiatives.
  By proactively addressing these challenges, the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy can create a sustainable and inclusive economic model that not only drives growth but also enhances the quality of life for Ghana’s citizens.

IX. Conclusion

Ghana’s dependency burden presents a complex set of socio-economic challenges, including high youth unemployment, social vices, and mental health issues. Addressing these challenges requires a strategic, multi-faceted approach that not only creates economic opportunities but also fosters social stability and inclusivity. The NDC’s 24-hour economy policy provides a comprehensive framework to achieve these objectives by leveraging continuous economic activity to expand job opportunities, enhance public safety, and improve access to essential services.

The analysis presented in this article highlights the potential of the 24-hour economy policy to mitigate the negative ripple effects of dependency burden. By promoting employment, economic empowerment, and transparency, the policy can indirectly contribute to reducing crime, substance abuse, and corruption. Furthermore, the emphasis on expanding healthcare services, improving infrastructure, and promoting work-life balance aligns with global best practices for addressing mental health challenges in a rapidly changing economic environment.

However, the successful implementation of this policy hinges on addressing key challenges such as work-life balance, security, infrastructure gaps, and energy reliability. By adopting robust policy frameworks, fostering public-private partnerships, and prioritizing stakeholder engagement, the NDC can ensure that the 24-hour economy delivers on its promise of sustainable and inclusive growth. This requires a coordinated effort to align economic, social, and environmental goals, ultimately positioning Ghana as a resilient and forward-looking nation in the 21st-century global economy.

The NDC’s 24-hour economy policy offers a pragmatic pathway for transforming Ghana’s socio-economic landscape. By addressing the root causes of unemployment, social vices, and mental health challenges, the policy provides a holistic response to the nation’s dependency burden, paving the way for a more prosperous and equitable future. Future research and policy development should focus on refining the implementation strategy, monitoring its outcomes, and adapting the policy to emerging socio-economic dynamics.