Government Announces Discontinuation of One-District-One-Factory Policy
Government has officially discontinued the One-District-One-Factory (1D1F) programme, marking a decisive shift away from one of the country’s most prominent industrialisation policies, as it pursues a new economic strategy centred on round-the-clock productivity.
Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare confirmed the policy’s termination in an address to Parliament on Tuesday, stating unequivocally that “there is no policy as 1D1F” and that the associated investment incentives had also been withdrawn.
Launched in 2017 by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, the 1D1F initiative aimed to stimulate local manufacturing by establishing at least one factory in each of Ghana’s administrative districts. The policy sought to accelerate industrialisation, create jobs, and shift the economy from raw material exports towards value-added production. Its discontinuation signals the government’s intention to recalibrate its industrial policy framework amid evolving economic priorities.
Responding to questions from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare outlined the government’s new direction, highlighting the introduction of a 24-hour economy policy intended to spur continuous production and economic activity.
“The 24-hour economy policy is the new game changer which seeks to make Ghana vibrant irrespective of time,” she said, adding that the strategy would be anchored by the development of agro-processing parks aimed at import substitution, export growth, and youth employment.
The pivot comes as Ghana grapples with sluggish industrial growth, inflationary pressures, and currency volatility. The new approach is designed to attract private sector investment, particularly in agribusiness, while reducing the economy’s dependence on commodity exports.
Mr Afenyo-Markin pressed the minister for details on investment incentives under the new policy framework, particularly regarding the development of industrial parks in underdeveloped regions to mitigate investor risk.
The government’s decision reflects a broader effort to reorient industrial policy towards higher efficiency, export diversification, and job creation. However, the dismantling of the 1D1F initiative may raise concerns over the continuity and consistency of Ghana’s industrialisation agenda.
As Ghana positions itself for a post-1D1F era, the success of the 24-hour economy and agro-industrial initiatives will be key to sustaining growth and enhancing the country’s appeal to investors.
