The District Chief Executive for Talensi, John Millim Nabomya, has defended the government’s proposed 24-hour economy market initiative, describing it as a strategy to expand economic activity and create jobs.
Speaking on Dreamz FM’s Breakfast Today programme, Mr Nabwomya said the market would provide round-the-clock access to goods and services while creating opportunities for traders and workers operating on different shifts.
He noted that Talensi’s mining-based economy makes the district suitable for such an intervention because mining companies operate 24-hour schedules.
“The essence is to expand the economy and engage more people in productive economic activities,” he said.
The DCE argued that the initiative would support the government’s broader employment agenda by creating opportunities for multiple workers to share shifts within the same business.
Mr Nabwomya also addressed recurring protests by residents demanding greater benefits from mining companies operating in the district.
While acknowledging that communities have legitimate expectations regarding employment and development projects, he called for dialogue and collaboration instead of confrontation.
He said no mining company has fully met the expectations of local residents, but stressed that sustainable solutions require engagement between communities, local authorities and the companies.
“The peace of the district is my priority. We should always dialogue and work together to achieve what we want,” he said.
Mr Nabwomya further disclosed that the Talensi District Assembly and local stakeholders are in the process of finalizing a Corporate Social Responsibility agreement with mining companies to ensure communities receive greater benefits from mining activities.
He expressed optimism that the agreement would be concluded in the near future and help address some of the concerns raised by residents.
