A formal sod-cutting ceremony has been held in the Bawku West District of the Upper East Region to commence the construction of an ultra-modern 24-hour market, aimed at transforming the socio-economic landscape of the area and fulfilling a key campaign promise by President John Dramani Mahama.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Akamugri Donatus Atanga, hailed the 24-hour market concept as a novelty in Ghana’s development history, describing it as evidence of the President’s ability to think outside the box. He stressed that the facility is more than a trading post — it is a strategic legacy project designed to address youth unemployment by providing diverse commercial opportunities around the clock.
To ensure completion within an 18-month timeline, the Minister revealed that specific tranches of the District Assembly fund have already been ring-fenced to provide a dedicated financial stream for the construction.
The facility is designed to be a comprehensive centre for trade and community services. It will include lockable shops, sheds and stalls, a minimart, and a warehouse, as well as specialised zones such as a meat section, cold store, and a bulk-breaking area for wholesale trade. Essential services including a fire post, police post, security post, clinic, and pharmacy will also be part of the complex, alongside community and welfare amenities such as a food court, restaurant, gym, day care centre, and a Women’s Bank to support female entrepreneurs.
The District Chief Executive for Bawku West, Hon. James Ayamwego, expressed gratitude to the President for redeeming his pledge, noting that the market is essential for the district’s expansion. This was echoed by Hon. Cletus Avoka, Member of the Council of State, who remarked that the project would significantly decongest the Zebilla township, which currently suffers from heavy overcrowding. Hon. Avoka also expressed confidence that the President’s commitment to dedicated funding would ensure the market is completed on schedule, unlike other projects where work stalls after the first stone is laid.
The Regional Minister issued a stern appeal to local landowners and youth regarding the supply of construction materials, warning that project delays often occur when contractors are denied access to sand and gravel deposits. While acknowledging the rights of landowners, he urged them not to be exploitative in their charges, citing the example of community members who donated the project land for free.
The Member of Parliament for the area, Hon. Ebenezer Alumire Ndebilla, charged the community to take ownership of the project and support the contractor to meet the deadline, while also advising the contractor to maintain strong communal relations to foster a peaceful working environment.
The project consultant, Avangarde Design Services, assured the public that quality would not be compromised. “This project is dear to the state,” Architect Awuah noted, adding that the state will not tolerate any shoddy work. He urged the contractor to work closely with key stakeholders to deliver a high-standard facility that meets the needs of the people of Bawku West.
