Upper East Regional Minister Akamugri Donatus Atanga officially broke ground on the construction of a 24-Hour Economy Market in Nania, Kassena-Nankana West District, on [Date of Ceremony – inferred as recent]. This initiative is a key component of the government’s national strategy to invigorate economic growth, enhance trade, foster industrial development, create employment, and improve living standards.
Government’s 24-Hour Economy Initiative Takes Root
The 24-Hour Economy Initiative, first conceptualized by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to address the pressing issues of youth unemployment and underemployment across Ghana. The policy is designed as a strategic intervention to create a diverse range of employment opportunities within both the public and private sectors, thereby stimulating local economic activities.
The newly commissioned market in Nania is envisioned as a comprehensive commercial hub. Upon completion, it will feature 21 distinct facilities. These include modern lockable shops, open sheds and stalls, dedicated food courts, essential cold stores and warehouses for preservation, adequate washrooms, and restaurants. For enhanced services, the market will also house a pharmacy, a clinic, a daycare centre, and a gymnasium. Crucially, to ensure safety and operational efficiency, the design incorporates police and fire service posts, a specialized meat section, and a branch of the Women Development Bank. Comprehensive waste management facilities and ample parking spaces are also part of the plan.
Strategic Location and Security Enhancements
The choice of Nania, a suburb of Paga, is strategically significant. Member of Parliament for the Chiana-Paga Constituency, Mr. Nikyema Billa Alamzy, highlighted the area’s proximity to Sahelian countries, presenting considerable market opportunities for local traders. This border location underscores the potential for cross-border trade and economic integration.
A key objective of the 24-Hour Market is to provide a secure trading environment. The Regional Minister emphasized that the inclusion of police and fire service posts would mitigate risks of robbery attacks, which often affect traders, food vendors, and mobile money operators. This security assurance is expected to empower women in business and allow for continuous economic activity throughout the day and night.
Community Engagement and Contractor Responsibilities
Minister Atanga presented the project as a tangible demonstration of the government’s appreciation for the support received from the region, particularly in anticipation of the 2024 general election. He commended the landowners for their cooperation in releasing the land and expressed gratitude to local chiefs and residents for their backing.
During the site handover ceremony, the Minister directed the contractor, Sunlu Ghana Limited, to prioritize local content in their employment practices. This directive aims to ensure community involvement and create direct employment opportunities for the local population during the construction phase.
Local Impact and Project Milestones
The District Chief Executive for Kassena-Nankana West, Mr. Stephen Aeke Akurugu, hailed the project as a significant milestone for the district’s development. He anticipates that the modern facility will foster a conducive trading environment, generate employment for the youth, empower traders, and boost the Assembly’s internally generated revenue.
Mr. Akurugu urged for community cooperation with the contractor to ensure the project’s smooth and timely completion, which is slated for 18 months. He also stressed the importance of maintaining high standards and professionalism throughout the construction process.
Broader Regional Development
The Nania market is one of four similar projects the Regional Minister has recently commissioned. Construction is also set to commence in the Bolgatanga and Kassena-Nankana Municipalities, as well as the Bawku West District. This widespread rollout indicates a concerted effort to implement the 24-Hour Economy policy across various parts of the Upper East Region.
Looking Ahead
The successful groundbreaking in Kassena-Nankana West marks a critical step in realizing the government’s vision for a more dynamic and inclusive economy. The focus will now shift to the construction phase, with particular attention on adherence to the 18-month timeline and the effective integration of local labor. The performance of this market, once operational, will be closely watched as a barometer for the broader success of the 24-Hour Economy Initiative in the region and its potential to be replicated elsewhere in Ghana.
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