The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, says the government’s proposed 24-hour market system will create more employment opportunities through President John Dramani Mahama’s “one job, three shifts” concept aimed at keeping the economy running day and night throughout the year.
According to the Minister, the concept is designed to ensure that businesses operate continuously on a rotational basis, thereby creating additional jobs for the youth while boosting economic activity.
He explained that unlike the traditional market system in northern Ghana, where trading activities are mostly held every three days, the proposed 24-hour markets would operate daily without closure.
The Minister made the remarks during a sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a 24-hour market and other development projects in the Talensi District.
He noted that during President John Dramani Mahama’s nationwide tour, youth unemployment emerged as one of the major concerns raised by citizens, leading to the conception of the 24-hour economy policy.
“The 24-hour market is part of the President’s broader vision to keep the economy running 24/7 all year round through the one-job, three-shift system,” he stated.
The Minister further explained that the establishment of 24-hour markets across the country would require round-the-clock security and emergency services, a development he said would lead to the recruitment of more police and fire service personnel.
He added that the initiative would also create an enabling environment for small businesses operating within the markets to function continuously, thereby compelling many traders and business owners to employ more workers to sustain all-day operations.
According to him, the proposed markets would include important facilities aimed at supporting both traders and consumers while ensuring safety and efficiency in commercial activities.
