The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has described the construction of the proposed 24-hour market in Bolgatanga as a major step toward tackling youth unemployment and boosting economic activity in the region.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony on Friday at the Tanzui, Zorbisi and Sokabisi enclave in the Bolgatanga Municipality, Mr. Atanga said the project forms part of the National Democratic Congress government’s broader 24-hour economy agenda championed by President John Dramani Mahama.
According to him, the policy was one of the NDC’s key promises during the 2024 election campaign and is intended to “reset Ghana” through policies that directly improve the lives of citizens.
“This is just one aspect of the 24-hour economy policy. We are here today to demonstrate that the NDC walks the talk. President John Dramani Mahama is a visionary leader who does not make promises and abandon them,” Mr. Atanga said.
The Regional Minister argued that, unlike previous administrations which he claimed merely rebranded existing policies, the 24-hour economy initiative represents a practical solution to Ghana’s growing unemployment challenge.
“The biggest problem facing this country is youth unemployment. If you do not think outside the box, then you are not concerned about the welfare of the people. That is why the President introduced the 24-hour economy and the 24-hour market concept,” he said.
Mr. Atanga explained that the project is expected to create both public and private sector jobs when completed. He noted that the market would operate around the clock and require continuous security and emergency services, creating employment opportunities for personnel in the police, fire and health services.
“In the Upper East Region alone, we are expecting about 15 of such facilities. If the market is to run 24 hours, then police officers, fire officers and health workers must also operate around the clock. That means more jobs for the youth,” he added.
The Minister also highlighted the security benefits of the project, particularly for traders and mobile money vendors who have become frequent targets of armed robbery attacks.
He said some traders had become reluctant to report to the market in the early hours of the morning because of insecurity.
“We were told that some market women used to come as early as 5 a.m. to prepare for business, but because of armed robbery attacks, they now wait until 7 or 8 a.m. With this market and the presence of security personnel, traders can work without fear,” he stressed.
Mr. Atanga appealed to residents and surrounding communities to support the project, describing the facility as a regional economic hub rather than a market intended only for residents of the immediate area.
The project, expected to be completed within 36 months, is being designed as a modern multi-purpose commercial centre.
Providing details of the project, consultant Sampson Awuah said the 24-hour market would go beyond the traditional concept of a marketplace by integrating key public service and social support facilities.
According to him, the facility will include a police station, fire service station, pharmacy, crèche, warehouses, cold stores, lockable shops, market stalls and a Women’s Bank, among other facilities.
“It is not just a market. It is a sustainable development facility designed to support continuous economic activity while ensuring safety and convenience for traders and residents,” Mr. Awuah said.
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