Ahmed Ibrahim has directed Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives to make the completion of 24-Hour Economy Model Markets a top priority in their districts.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at the Presidency in Accra, the Minister said the flagship programme was central to the government’s agenda and should not be seen as an initiative limited to the capital.
He stressed that every district must play a role in implementing the 24-Hour Economy policy, adding that the markets were designed to drive local trade, job creation and economic activity across the country.
According to the Minister, John Dramani Mahama has already cut sod for the construction of model markets in Dormaa-Ahenkro, Tamale and Bimbilla.
He explained that the modern markets would include shops, warehouses, cold storage facilities, transport terminals, digital payment systems, women-focused banking services, health and sanitation facilities, fire stations, police posts, rest areas and crèches.
Mr Ibrahim described the project as a “one-stop shop” for local commerce and urged district leaders to ensure that construction is completed on time.
He noted that the President is expected to begin commissioning some of the markets next year, making it important for MMDCEs to accelerate work in their respective areas.
The 24-Hour Economy Model Markets programme seeks to establish modern markets in all 261 districts to support round-the-clock trading and improve local economic development.
