Minister of Local Government, Sanitation, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has disclosed the government’s intention to put up new market structures across the country to facilitate its 24-hour economy initiative.
The Minister says the modern markets are going to be built in each district to augment existing ones to roll out the 24-hour economy policy.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament Thursday, June 12, 2025, the Minister revealed that 25% of the assemblies’ common fund are going to be allocated for the establishment of these markets for the initiative.
“What we are doing in every district is identifying the commercial centres. Once that is done, we can allocate 25% of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) to GHC 24 million annually towards developing these commercial hubs.
“The plan includes building schools nearby so farmers can have their children in school while they work in the markets. There will also be fire and police posts to respond to emergencies such as fires or theft. Our focus on the 24-hour economy goes beyond just providing electricity,” he stated.
The 24-Hour Economy Policy, a flagship initiative of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), announced by President John Dramani Mahama, then candidate of the NDC, aims to keep the country’s economy running around the clock, with a focus on production, service delivery, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the policy, described by the government as a game changer, is ready and will take effect from July 1.
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