The Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Abraham Koomson, says two years is insufficient for the government to reverse years of economic difficulties and transform Ghana’s productive sectors.
He has urged Ghanaians to allow government policies sufficient time to produce results, arguing that economic recovery requires proper planning, consistent implementation and sustained commitment.
Mr Koomson likened the implementation of government policies to a football match, explaining that a team cannot be fairly judged before the full 90 minutes of play.
According to him, the government must be given adequate time to implement its economic programmes and demonstrate their impact rather than being expected to deliver a complete transformation within two years.
He acknowledged that although the Finance Minister had outlined policy priorities and made budgetary allocations to various ministries, the effectiveness of the budget would depend on how well the resources are utilised.
He said ministers must take responsibility for ensuring that allocations translate into tangible development outcomes instead of remaining figures on paper.
Mr Koomson commended the Finance Minister for what he described as a commitment to ensuring that government ministries function effectively, but stressed that proper monitoring, coordination and implementation would be necessary to achieve the intended results.
He further argued that Ghana inherited several economic challenges, including the effects of COVID-19, accumulated tax burdens and years of industrial decline, which require deliberate interventions to address.
On the government’s 24-hour economy initiative, Mr Koomson expressed confidence that the policy could help restore industrial productivity and create employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
However, he cautioned that the initiative would require a supportive business environment, arguing that private sector participation would be essential to expanding production and creating the jobs needed.
He said government must remain consistent in its economic policies and address challenges confronting businesses to encourage investment and restore confidence in the country’s productive sectors.
Mr Koomson expressed optimism that sustained efforts to revive industries and expand economic activities would eventually benefit the younger generation through increased employment and business opportunities.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah