The Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Abraham Koomson, has cautioned that Ghana’s proposed 24-hour economy could encounter significant operational setbacks if critical infrastructure gaps — particularly in water supply — are not urgently addressed.

Mr. Koomson warned that inconsistent or, in some cases, non-existent water supply in key industrial zones poses a serious threat to the success of the policy.

He singled out Tema as one of the areas where industries could struggle to sustain round-the-clock production without reliable access to water.

Speaking on Ahotor FM on Saturday, February 21, he stressed that an uninterrupted water supply is essential for manufacturing and industrial processes.

Without it, he said, businesses would find it difficult to implement effective shift systems under a 24-hour operational model.

He also highlighted the daily challenges faced by businesses and residents in parts of Tema and Accra West, where many are compelled to search for water late at night or rely on expensive and often unreliable tanker services.

According to Mr. Koomson, these challenges significantly raise the cost of doing business and could discourage companies from fully embracing the 24-hour economy initiative.

He emphasised that for the policy to deliver its intended economic transformation and job creation benefits, the government must prioritise investment in essential infrastructure — including dependable water supply, stable electricity, and efficient sanitation systems.

While acknowledging the potential of the 24-hour economy to boost Ghana’s industrial sector, Mr. Koomson maintained that its success would ultimately depend on the strength and reliability of the foundational systems required to support continuous operations.