The Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has led a sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a 24-hour market in Bolgatanga East District at Zuarungu on behalf of the government.
Speaking at the event in Zuarungu, Mr. Atanga urged contractors to deliver high standards and complete the project on schedule, stressing that both the district assembly and central government expect timely and quality work across all sites.
“The assembly and the central government are looking up to you for timely and quality work. These markets are critical to our economic transformation agenda, and we cannot afford delays or substandard work,” he said.
The 24-hour market forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy policy and its “one job, three shifts” concept. The model is designed to keep economic activity running around the clock, create thousands of jobs, and strengthen local economies through continuous trade and services.
Addressing residents and officials, Mr. Atanga described President Mahama as a “promise keeper” leading a government committed to delivering tangible development.
The minister assured contractors and the public that funding for the project is secured through the District Assemblies Common Fund. He said 25% of the fund allocated to assemblies has been ring-fenced to finance the 24-hour markets, with contractors set to access 25% of the funds based on the number of markets each assembly is undertaking.
He also stressed the need for transparency in project execution, referencing the project documentation shared with stakeholders.
“Mr. Contractor, this document tells us exactly what the nature of the market is. One copy will be kept at the assembly, and another at the Coordinating Council for monitoring purposes. So if anything is hidden, it will be discovered. You must ensure that what is in the document is properly translated on the ground so the people can enjoy the facility the government is providing,” Mr. Atanga said.
He added that he had engaged traditional authorities to support the project and ensure smooth implementation.
The Bolgatanga East market is one of several 24-hour markets being rolled out across the Upper East Region as part of the government’s broader plan to expand formal employment through shift-based work and boost private sector participation.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Bolgatanga
