Policy think tank IMANI Africa has flagged transport affordability as one of the most significant threats to the government’s 24-hour economy agenda, cautioning that the night component of the policy may struggle to take off unless mobility challenges are addressed.
In its recent Critical Analysis of Governance Issues (CAGI) report, IMANI noted that while the 24Hr Plus Policy is designed to extend productivity beyond conventional working hours, the realities of night-time transport in Ghana present a substantial barrier for both workers and consumers.
The report stressed that night-time commuter fares are already high, driven by slow-moving evening traffic, higher fuel usage, and the elevated risks associated with poorly lit routes. According to the analysis, “transport affordability remains a critical barrier to the effective participation of ordinary Ghanaians in the night economy.” IMANI warned that these cost pressures are likely to discourage the very groups the policy seeks to empower.
The organisation also highlighted that the sustainability of extended-hour operations depends heavily on labour mobility. Without predictable and affordable travel after dark, IMANI argued, many businesses may find it difficult to attract workers for late shifts in retail, hospitality, manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.
Beyond workers, the report pointed to the added burden on logistics operators. Prolonged travel times during the evening peak, combined with increased fuel consumption and safety considerations, raise operational expenses and limit competitiveness. As the report put it, “the night component of the 24-hour economy cannot succeed if the movement of people and goods becomes more expensive after sunset.”
IMANI’s analysis emphasised that transport affordability must be treated as a central pillar of the 24-hour economy rather than an afterthought. It recommended targeted interventions including more predictable night transport services on major routes, improved street lighting, enhanced traffic management, and stronger dialogue with transport unions to stabilise fares.
While the vision of a vibrant night economy remains appealing, IMANI’s findings draw attention to the practical realities facing ordinary Ghanaians.
