President John Dramani Mahama has cut the sod for the construction of a 24-hour economy model market at Assin North in the Central Region, describing the project as a major step in government’s drive to modernise trade, create jobs, and strengthen local economic activity.
The project, which is estimated to cost a little over GH¢30 million, forms part of government’s broader plan to establish modern 24-hour economy markets across all districts in the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama said the initiative is a key component of the 24-Hour Economy Policy, which was a central promise during the 2024 election campaign. He explained that the policy has now been formally presented to Parliament, with a structured roadmap for the registration of businesses interested in participating in the programme.
According to him, the policy is designed to stimulate productivity, expand employment opportunities, and ensure continuous commercial activity to strengthen the national economy.
“Trade plays a critical role in every successful economy, which is why we are building modern 24-hour economy model markets to promote continuous circulation of money within the system,” he said.
President Mahama noted that the Assin North project is part of a nationwide rollout of similar markets in all districts, adding that government is committed to ensuring balanced development across the country.
He stressed that in line with efforts to promote accountability and value for money, contractors will not receive upfront mobilisation payments. Instead, payments will be made based on certified milestones of work completed.
He explained that this approach is aimed at preventing past challenges in project execution and ensuring that contractors deliver quality work on schedule.
The President also highlighted reforms in the management of the District Assemblies Common Fund, stating that 80 per cent of the fund is now transferred directly to district assemblies to speed up local development projects.
According to him, this decentralisation is intended to empower district authorities to implement development initiatives more efficiently.
President Mahama further announced that the new Assin North market will be equipped with modern facilities including a police station, fire station, clinic, bank, cold storage facilities, restaurants, warehouses, a daycare centre, washrooms, waste treatment systems, and a lorry station to support commercial activities.
He said the integration of these facilities is meant to make the market a fully functional economic hub that operates around the clock.
President Mahama also disclosed that government is continuing work on the Agenda 111 hospital project, with 35 facilities selected for completion, including the hospital in Assin North.
He added that Assin State College will also benefit from government’s E-Block expansion programme, aimed at improving educational infrastructure across the country.
President Mahama thanked residents of Assin North for their warm reception and reiterated government’s commitment to delivering infrastructure that improves livelihoods and drives national development.
Source: Mubarak Yakubu
