President John Mahama has assured that his administration will champion policies that will propel the growth of the private sector to lead the country’s economic development.

Speaking at the Independence Square after he was sworn in as Ghana’s sixth President of the Fourth Republic, Mr Mahama pledged to provide an enabling environment for the youth to create jobs and increase employment.

He promised to make youth employment and skills development a catalyst for economic growth.

“Our policies will be tailored to sustain innovation and foster industry that engages today’s young mind and equip them with the skills needed for tomorrow’s challenges”, he said.

Citing the private sector as an important stakeholder, President Mahama assured that he will work to create decent jobs by supporting businesses to expand their operations.

“Together with the private sector and captains of business, we will create decent and well-paying jobs. As we embark on this new chapter I assure you that our decision will champion diversity in all facets of governance”.

President Mahama also reiterated that the government’s 24-hour economic policy will make the agricultural sector an integral part of the country’s development.

He explained that this will be achieved through agribusiness initiatives.

“The innovative and vibrant 24-hour economy policy will be anchored on agriculture and agribusiness. This innovative approach will unlock potentials that have remained dormant and enable us to harness the energy and creativity of all our people”.

President Mahama underscored the need to drive the 24-hour economy policy with an active market that will help match demand with the supply of goods.

“Imagine a Ghana where our markets are alive and bustling at all hours of the day. With responsive public services accessible at all times so that businesses can operate flexibly to meet the diverse demands that they are subjected to”, he said.