I am very worried – Alan Kyerematen on cancellation of 1D1F

Former Trade and Industry Minister and founder of the United Party, Alan Kyerematen, expressed worry over the abandonment of One District, One Factory (1D1F) projects. Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Kyerematen stated that 1D1F projects were meant to be catalysts for local manufacturing and job creation, and should have been supported further to contribute to the government’s 24-hour economy agenda.

"I am very worried that 1D1F projects have been abandoned," he said, as there were about 300 projects nationwide when he left office. Mr Kyerematen questioned why the government did not build on the investments made under the programme by providing necessary support to companies to expand their operations. "So can you imagine if the NDC in 2025 had continued and supported the companies?

They should have looked for ways to support these factories so that they can contribute to the 24-hour economy," he questioned. The 1D1F programme, initiated by the Akufo-Addo-led administration, was designed as a private-sector-led industrialization initiative, with government providing incentives and support to businesses. As of June 2023, 296 projects were at various stages of implementation, including 126 operational companies and 143 under construction.

However, Mr Kyerematen revealed that the programme faced challenges even within the NPP government that introduced it. "Even within the NPP, there was internal sabotage," he said, questioning why the policy was managed from the Office of the President instead of being properly managed and implemented. He also expressed concerns about the fate of the 67 business resource centres established to support entrepreneurs and 1D1F companies, which have reportedly been abandoned by the NDC.