President John Dramani Mahama has cut the sod for the construction of a 24-hour economy market in Assin Bereku in the Assin North District, fulfilling a key promise made during the 2024 election campaign and outlined in the NDC manifesto.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader national strategy to stimulate economic activity across the country, with markets identified as key drivers of local economic growth. These trading centres serve as hubs where buyers and sellers meet, facilitating the exchange of goods and the circulation of money within local economies.
Under the programme, the government plans to construct modern 24-hour markets in all 261 districts nationwide.
Each market will be equipped with essential infrastructure, including a fire station, a police post, and a crèche to support traders with young children. The facilities will also feature restaurants that operate throughout the day, as well as clinics, banking services, and other complementary amenities to sustain continuous economic activity.
The flagship market in Assin North is designed as a comprehensive commercial hub aimed at boosting trade, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth in the district. In addition to the police post, fire station, health centre, and banking facilities, the market will also include a school to support round-the-clock business operations while ensuring the safety and welfare of traders and patrons.
Addressing the gathering, President Mahama disclosed that the government has secured sustainable funding for the project through the allocation of 25 percent of the District Assemblies Common Fund. According to him, the funding arrangement is intended to ensure that contractors receive timely payments, preventing delays and the abandonment of projects—a challenge that has affected many infrastructure developments across the country.
He expressed confidence that the dedicated funding source would enable contractors to complete the project within the scheduled 36-month period and appealed to all stakeholders to support its successful execution.
The Chairman of the occasion, Nana Pra Agyensaim VI, Paramount Chief of the Assin Owirenkyi Traditional Council, described the 24-Hour Economy Market as a transformative initiative capable of accelerating national development and addressing unemployment.
He cited his own water production company as an example, explaining that it employs 30 workers across three separate eight-hour shifts. According to him, the 24-hour economy model creates more employment opportunities while increasing productivity.
He further urged Ghanaians to rally behind the government’s 24-hour economy agenda with the same enthusiasm they have shown in supporting the Black Stars during the ongoing World Cup, stressing that the initiative has the potential to transform livelihoods and strengthen the country’s economy.
The ceremony concluded with President Mahama officially cutting the sod, paving the way for construction to begin on the project, which is expected to be completed within 36 months.
