By: Valentia Tetteh
Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has expressed support for the government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy policy, describing it as a potential driver of job creation and economic transformation if implemented effectively.
Speaking at the launch of the Young Commons Forum at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Mr. Afenyo-Markin acknowledged the government’s decision to replace the One District, One Factory (1D1F) programme with the new 24-Hour Economy initiative but urged that it be rolled out carefully for the benefit of Ghanaians.
“The One District, One Factory initiative seeded factories across the country. By mid-2024, 321 factories had been supported in 142 districts, creating about 170,000 jobs for Ghanaians, many of them young people. These are real jobs in manufacturing and agribusiness,” he noted.
“Yet today, that hope is no more. The government has decided to cancel the 1D1F programme and replace it with an untested 24-Hour Economy. But I am optimistic that, with time, the government will be able to realise its vision under this policy to create jobs for the people. We await them, because if it works, it works for the people. The fact that I am in opposition does not mean I should oppose it. I have seen the policy document, and I pray the government will be able to roll it out for the benefit of the private sector to create more jobs.”
The Young Commons Forum, a non-partisan platform aimed at amplifying youth voices on governance and leadership, drew hundreds of students and young professionals. The Minority Leader challenged participants to take ownership of Ghana’s future, urging them to embrace innovation, demand accountability, and serve their communities.
“You are the torchbearers of this nation. Leadership is not about titles; it is about action and impact,” he told the audience.
Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he added, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
Mr. Afenyo-Markin further highlighted the need for young people to actively monitor government policies and hold leaders to their promises.
“Do not allow political leaders to make promises without delivering results. Whether it is the 24-Hour Economy, the Big Push, or any other initiative, follow up and insist on transparency,” he said.
While praising the government’s vision, the Efutu lawmaker called for bipartisan support to ensure the success of youth-centered policies.
“Empowering the next generation should be a national priority, not a partisan agenda. Ghana is too rich in talent and resources for us to entertain mediocrity,” he emphasized.
The event, themed “Empowering the Next Generation for Leadership and Nation-Building,” served as a rallying call for young Ghanaians to rise to the challenge of shaping the country’s future.
Quoting from Nelson Mandela, Mr. Afenyo-Markin said, “Sometimes, it falls upon a generation to be great. This is your time to respond with greatness.”
