President Mahama Cuts Sod for Pioneering 24-Hour Economy Market in Dormaa Ahenkro
President John Dramani Mahama has officially cut the sod for the construction of a modern 24-hour economy model market at Dormaa Ahenkro, marking the launch of a flagship initiative under the government’s push for continuous economic operations.
The project is the first of its kind and is set to be replicated in all 261 districts across Ghana, aiming to create vibrant commercial hubs that operate around the clock to stimulate local economies, generate employment, and support traders.
Modern Features to Support Traders
The new market will include state-of-the-art facilities such as:
A day-care centre for traders’ children
Restaurants and food outlets
Police and fire stations for security
A clinic for health services
Cold storage units to preserve perishable goods
A lorry station for easy transport
Shops, offices for market management, and a Women Development Bank
These amenities are designed to make trading safer, more efficient, and productive, especially for women and small-scale operators who often face challenges in traditional market settings.
Part of Broader “Accounting to the People” Tour
The sod-cutting ceremony took place during President Mahama’s nationwide “Accounting to the People” tour (also referred to as the “Resetting Ghana Tour”), which brings government closer to citizens. The tour allows the President to update communities on policies, inspect projects, and engage directly with local leaders and residents.
Speaking at the event in Dormaa Ahenkro, President Mahama emphasized that the 24-hour markets fulfill a key campaign promise from 2024. He assured that similar facilities will help expand opportunities, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.
Additional Issues Raised
The Omanhene of the Dormaa Traditional Area and President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, used the occasion to appeal to the government on two fronts:
Urging the completion of the abandoned Agenda 111 hospital project in Dormaa Central Municipality and other parts of the country to improve healthcare access.
Calling for an investigation into the recent destruction of eggs transported from the Dormaa area to Burkina Faso, which has caused poultry farmers losses exceeding GH₵10 million.
President Mahama also announced plans to collaborate with Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, to probe the egg destruction incident and address cross-border trade challenges.
This development signals strong momentum behind the 24-hour economy policy, with Dormaa Ahenkro serving as the pilot location. Construction is expected to begin soon, with more details on timelines and funding to follow.
The event received wide coverage from local media, including live broadcasts and photos showing the ceremonial groundbreaking attended by traditional leaders, government officials, and community members.
