By: Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
President John Mahama has begun his nationwide “Resetting Ghana Tour,” aimed at engaging citizens, inspecting ongoing government projects, and interacting with stakeholders, traditional authorities, and the media.
The President’s first stop is the Bono Region, where he cut the sod at Dormaa-Ahenkro for the construction of a 24-hour market as part of a nationwide initiative to establish similar facilities across all 261 districts.
The 30 million cedi Dormaa-Ahenkro project is expected to be completed within 30 months and is being executed by a local construction firm, Hawaii Agency Limited. President Mahama assured that the remaining 260 districts will also benefit from the 24-hour economy market programme.
The initiative is designed to create modern, secure, and decentralised commercial hubs that operate round the clock to boost local production and generate employment.
The model markets will feature modern infrastructure, including reliable lighting systems, 24-hour security, banking services, and daycare facilities to support continuous trading. Additional installations such as police posts, fire stations, and advanced surveillance systems are expected to enhance safety.
They will also include modern stalls, secure storage spaces, and improved sanitation and waste management systems to ensure a conducive trading environment. Essential services such as pharmacies, banking halls, and childcare centres will be integrated into the facilities.
Strategically located at sub-district levels, the markets are expected to bring trading closer to communities and reduce congestion in major urban centres. Dedicated sections for farmers, artisans, and wholesalers will help ensure a steady supply of goods.
The project is being spearheaded by the 24-Hour Economy Authority in collaboration with the Accelerated Export Development Programme, with funding support from 25 percent of the District Assemblies Common Fund.
President Mahama described the 24-hour market initiative as a well-thought-out policy aimed at stimulating economic activity and strengthening livelihoods.
President Mahama says the government has built a resilient economy capable of withstanding external shocks.
The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, who is also President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, commended the President for ongoing road projects in the region and expressed hope that they will be completed to benefit the people.
The “Resetting Ghana Tour” is expected to take President Mahama to all regions as he outlines his government’s development agenda and engages directly with Ghanaians.
