By Melchizedek M. Fosu
Mahama Cuts Sod for Juapong 24-Hour Economy Market to Boost Trade and Jobs | President John Dramani Mahama has cut the sod for the construction of a modern 24-Hour Economy Market at Juapong in the North Tongu District, marking the start of the government’s flagship market infrastructure programme in the Volta Region.
Speaking at the ceremony on Thursday, President Mahama described the project as a major investment that will boost agricultural trade, reduce post-harvest losses and create sustainable jobs. He said the market forms part of the government’s plan to build modern 24-hour economy markets in all 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
According to the President, the initiative will provide farmers, traders and businesses with improved infrastructure to support production, commerce and value addition. As a result, producers will have better access to markets, while local supply chains will become more efficient.
Furthermore, President Mahama said the market will help farmers reduce post-harvest losses through improved storage facilities. Traders will also benefit from a cleaner, safer and more organised trading environment, allowing them to operate more efficiently.
He added that the project will stimulate economic activity beyond the marketplace. Transport operators, artisans, food processors and other service providers are expected to benefit from increased commercial opportunities.
“The market will strengthen linkages across the local economy, ensuring that more value is created and retained within the community,” the President said.
President Mahama announced that all 18 districts in the Volta Region will benefit from the 24-Hour Economy Market programme. However, the Juapong project will serve as the first phase of the regional rollout.
Although North Tongu is not a Metropolitan Assembly, the President revealed that Juapong has been selected for a Category Four market, the highest classification under the programme. He explained that the category is usually reserved for Metropolitan Assemblies because of their larger populations and economic activity.
The facility will include 100 lockable stores, 150 market sheds and stalls, 10 warehouses, a police post, a fire station, a clinic, a pharmacy, a daycare centre, modern washrooms and shower facilities, a Women’s Development Bank branch, a butcher’s shop and a cold storage facility.
In addition, the warehouses and cold storage facility will help preserve goods and reduce losses. Meanwhile, the police post, fire station and health facilities will enhance safety and provide essential emergency services. The daycare centre will also support traders, especially women, by providing childcare during business hours.
President Mahama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the 24-Hour Economy agenda, stating that modern market infrastructure will promote inclusive economic growth, create jobs and improve livelihoods across Ghana.
Mahama Cuts Sod for Juapong 24-Hour Economy Market to Boost Trade and Jobs | AviationGhana
