The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV has applauded NDC flagbearer John Mahama for his proposed 24-hour economy policy, and zeal to revive the country’s economy.
He described the former President’s 24-hour economy policy as a panacea to help recover Ghana’s ailing economy, create jobs, and increase the country’s foreign exchange through exports when implemented in the manufacturing sector.
Togbe Afede was speaking when Mr Mahama led a delegation to pay a courtesy call on him in Ho on the first day of the NDC’s campaign tour of the Volta Region.
“Let me congratulate you, first of all on your 24-hour economy policy. As someone who believes in hard work, I believe this is what we need. It is obvious that the application of this policy in the manufacturing sector can indeed be a game changer”, he said.
He indicated that, machinery in the manufacturing sector is designed to keep running 24 hours to maximize profit and hence must be used as such.
He said the 24-hour Economy Policy would help Ghana expand its production capacity to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA), which seeks to promote intra-trade on the African continent.
“It has been established that we are far behind those countries currently in the pilot phase as far as export to our counterparts are concerned.
“I am aware that Nigeria actually launched an ambitious $50 billion program to expand production and, therefore, export to Africa, taking advantage of AfCFTA.
“So I think your policy is a sure way of making us ready to also export to other African countries and of course by so doing expand employment. The factory which just runs for 8 hours, one shift, decides to do 3 shifts”, he said.
He further indicated the proposed 24-hour policy would reduce the cost of production and promote competition “so I think it is a great policy and it deserves all of our support.”
The revered traditional ruler also lauded the NDC Flagbearer’s plan to involve the youth in decision-making at all levels of government since the future belongs to the youth.
Togbe Afede also sides with Mr Mahama’s proposal to review the payment of ex-gratia to Article 17 officeholders and congratulates him on his exoneration in the Airbus scandal.
“I want to wish you, on behalf of all of our people, success in all your endeavours as you tour the length and breadth of our region. Thank you very much for coming”, he concluded.
Source: Fred Quame Asare
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