Government officials and traditional leaders in Bongo have cut sod for the construction of a modern 24-Hour Economy Market, a project expected to boost trade, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the district.
The sod-cutting ceremony, held on May 21, 2026, brought together the Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga; the Paramount Chief of Bongo, Bonaba Atamale Alemyarum Salifu; Bongo MP Lawyer Charles Bawadua; and the Bongo District Chief Executive, Diana Ayamga Asoketarige, alongside chiefs, market women, assembly members, and residents.
The project forms part of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s 24-Hour Economy and Women’s Development Bank initiatives announced ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The market is expected to support continuous commercial activity while opening employment opportunities for traders, artisans, transport operators, and service providers in Bongo and surrounding communities.
Planned facilities include lockable stores, market stalls, cold stores, warehouses, a meat section, public washrooms, parking spaces, and waste management systems.
Supporting infrastructure will also include a police station, fire station, pharmacy, clinic, daycare centre, restaurants, supermarkets, mini markets, a youth recreation centre, and administrative offices.
Speaking at the ceremony, Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga thanked the chiefs and people of Zorko for releasing land for the project and described the initiative as “one market, all jobs.”
He said the project would create employment opportunities across multiple sectors while strengthening local economic activity.
Bongo MP Charles Bawadua and DCE Diana Ayamga Asoketarige expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC government for bringing the project to the district.
Paramount Chief Bonaba Atamale Salifu Alemyarum, speaking on behalf of the traditional council, commended the government for the initiative and urged the contractor to ensure quality work and timely completion of the project.
The event attracted party executives, heads of departments, market women, media personnel, and residents from across the district.
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