Mr. Emmanuel Frimpong, Founding President of the Africa Tourism Research Network (ATRN), has urged government to place tourism and hospitality at the heart of it’s proposed 24-hour economy, saying the sector is uniquely positioned to generate jobs, investment, and continuous economic activity day and night.
In an interview, Mr. Frimpong, who is also a Tourism Consultant, said a thriving 24-hour economy requires strategic investment in tourism infrastructure, safety, skilled labour, and modern regulatory frameworks.
He called for the development of a national night-time economy policy, modernisation of tourism regulations, and the creation of designated 24-hour tourism precincts in key cities. Such zones, he noted, would encourage round-the-clock dining, entertainment, creative arts, transport and hospitality services.
Mr. Frimpong emphasised that safety remains essential to any successful night-time economy.
He recommended, improved night-time policing, enhanced CCTV surveillance, upgraded street lighting and establishment of Tourism Police Units to protect visitors and businesses
“These measures will boost public confidence and ensure both workers and visitors feel secure at all times,” he added.
He said the 24-hour economy must be supported by extended public transport services, improved road networks, reliable electricity, ICT connectivity, and uninterrupted utilities to sustain hospitality businesses operating through the night.
On human resource development, Mr. Frimpong encouraged partnerships with HOTCATT and accredited hospitality schools to train workers specifically for night operations.
He also called for youth employment initiatives that integrate creative arts, cultural tourism, and hospitality services.
To support businesses transitioning to 24-hour service, Mr. Frimpong proposed; tax incentives and subsidies, access to low-interest credit, support for SMEs such as food vendors, cultural performers, and entertainment service providers
He said such measures would unlock private investment and stimulate entrepreneurship around the clock.
The ATRN President urged government to intensify destination marketing through a “Ghana by Day and Night” promotional campaign, highlighting Ghana’s rich culture, nightlife, festivals, cuisine, and entertainment offerings.
He also advocated the use of digital platforms, including e-payments, online booking systems, and a national tourism database to improve service delivery and visitor experience.
Mr. Frimpong recommended the establishment of a multi-sectoral taskforce to coordinate the 24-hour economy, ensuring alignment across tourism, transport, security, energy, local government, and private sector stakeholders.
He also called for environmentally responsible practices and greater community inclusion in tourism development.
With strong political commitment and coordinated leadership, he said tourism and hospitality could become a major engine of Ghana’s 24-hour economy, expanding employment opportunities, enhancing creativity, and promoting sustainable growth.
