Construction of model 24-Hour Economy markets across the Upper East Region are set to commence soon, following the completion of key preparatory processes by all the Municipal and District Assemblies (MDAs).
Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Minister, announced this at a meeting of the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) held in Bolgatanga, describing the initiative as a major step towards job creation, trade expansion, and economic transformation in the region.
He explained that all the 15 MDAs in the region had submitted their land deed documentation to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA), clearing a major hurdle for the rollout of the 24-Hour Economy markets.
“The 24-Hour Economy is one of Government’s flagship policies aimed at stimulating economic growth by creating an enabling environment for businesses and institutions to operate round the clock, thereby boosting productivity and employment,” Mr Akamugri said.
To support the implementation, Government has ring-fenced 25 per cent of District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) allocations to the Assemblies for the development of the markets, he added.
As part of preparatory work, Avangarde Design Services, a consulting firm, has conducted feasibility studies for the establishment of 24-Hour Economy markets in all the 15 MDAs of the region.
The studies assessed economic viability, sustainability, location, design, and operational frameworks to ensure the markets met the needs of traders and consumers.
Mr Akamugri said the firm had submitted its report to the MLGCRA, with copies to the RCC and the relevant Assemblies, noting that initial indications from the studies were positive.
He disclosed that procurement processes had commenced, with advertisements already placed inviting bidders to tender for the construction of the model markets.
The Regional Minister emphasised that the markets would play a critical role in boosting trade, creating jobs, especially for the youth, and stimulating local economic development in line with Government’s broader 24-Hour Economy agenda.
To strengthen the initiative, the Regional Minister stressed that Government was deliberately strengthening agricultural production to ensure a steady supply of locally produced food to feed the 24-Hour Economy markets.
He said the Region had identified 24,475 acres (approximately 9,904.7 hectares) of potential irrigable land in the Binduri, Bawku West, Builsa South and Kassena-Nankana Municipality for development into commercial farming enclaves to support all-year-round farming.
“These agricultural interventions are critical to producing enough food to supply the 24-Hour Economy markets and reduce dependence on imported food,” Mr Akamugri stated.
He called on MMDAs, traditional authorities and the private sector to fully support the initiative to ensure its timely and successful implementation.
The 24-Hour Economy markets are expected to complement other government interventions in agriculture, trade and industrialisation aimed at strengthening local and regional economies and improving livelihoods.
