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President John Dramani Mahama has explained that the decision to build modern, multipurpose 24-hour markets across the country is a key part of his administration’s vision to stimulate economic growth and create wealth for communities. The new model departs from traditional markets by integrating essential services such as banking, storage, and security, along with facilities like restaurants, crèches, and clinics to address the health needs of traders in case of emergencies.
Speaking at a sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a 24-hour market in Bimbilla, Northern Region, President Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to the project, stating that every one of Ghana’s 261 districts will benefit from such a facility.
“Across the country, our traditional markets often operate just once or twice a week, with traders gathering to sell their farm produce and wares. With these new 24-hour markets, we intend to keep the wheels of commerce turning around the clock, thereby stimulating continuous economic activity. This was a promise I made, and we are fully committed to seeing it through,” President Mahama said during the opening of his two-day #ResettingGhana tour in the northern region.
He emphasized the importance of markets in agriculture, noting that without a reliable market for produce, farming is futile. “There must be a linkage between the farmer and the consumer, and the market is that crucial connection. Bimbilla, being one of the major food baskets, deserves to have one of the largest facilities,” he added.
To further support the agriculture sector, President Mahama announced that the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) would introduce value-added processes aimed at extending the shelf life of food crops, reducing waste, and helping farmers and traders to maximize their returns on investment.
The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, also issued a stern warning to contractors, stressing that substandard work will not be tolerated. He further stated that any delays in the completion of projects would lead to their cancellation.
In addition to the market initiative, President Mahama, accompanied by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, and other officials, inspected the ongoing construction of a 300-capacity, three-storey hostel at the Bimbilla EP College of Education.
Story by Efua Nessa
Source: Loco tv