Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Ahmed Ibrahim has assured Parliament that the government’s flagship 24-hour market project will be delivered within 22 to 24 months, despite the contractual completion period being 36 months.
Government, he said, had directed contractors to accelerate work to ensure the markets are completed well before the official contract period expires
Responding to questions before Parliament’s Government Assurances Committee last Thursday, the Minister said although the contracts provide for a 36-month completion period, contractors have been encouraged to finish construction within 22 to 24 months to allow Ghanaians to begin benefiting from the initiative during the current administration.
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Ahmed Ibrahim explained that the 24-hour market programme goes beyond constructing ordinary market facilities.
He said each market in the 261 districts is being designed as a modern commercial hub with essential services, including banking facilities, security infrastructure, fire safety systems and other amenities needed to support businesses operating around the clock.
He noted that the government is working closely with the Ministry of the Interior to ensure adequate security at the markets after completion.
Rather than relying solely on nationwide police postings, he said special recruitment and deployment would be considered to provide dedicated personnel for market surveillance and public safety.
The Minister added that the facilities would also accommodate fire service personnel and other emergency response units to enhance safety for traders and customers.
Ahmed Ibrahim disclosed that consultants spent about six months developing standardised prototype designs for the markets. The designs, he said, underwent rigorous technical reviews by engineers and other professionals before being approved for implementation.
He stressed that the location of each market was determined through technical assessments rather than political considerations. Factors such as population size, economic activity, commercial viability and recommendations from Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies were taken into account before sites were selected.
According to the Minister, the government deliberately avoided political influence in choosing project locations, insisting that markets would be sited where they would generate the greatest economic impact for surrounding communities.
He reiterated that the 24-hour market initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to promote commerce, create jobs and strengthen local economic development across the country.