President John Dramani Mahama has cut sod for the construction of a 24-hour market in Bimbila, delivering on a key campaign pledge made during the 2024 elections under the NDC’s manifesto.

The project is part of government’s broader agenda to boost economic activity nationwide through the expansion of modern market infrastructure across all districts.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama highlighted the vital role markets play in local economies, noting that beyond facilitating trade, they also drive the circulation of money within communities.

He disclosed that all 261 districts will benefit from the 24-hour market initiative, with each facility designed to include essential services such as fire and police stations, childcare centres, clinics, banks, warehouses and restaurants.

The president further stressed the need to strengthen the link between agricultural production and market access, pointing out that farming becomes unsustainable without reliable avenues to sell produce. He described the Bimbila project as a strategic investment, given the area’s status as a major producer of yams, maize, beans and other food crops.

According to him, the market will feature ten large warehouses to support safe storage and improve farmers’ access to better market opportunities.

President Mahama also charged the contractor to ensure high-quality execution, noting that the facility is expected to serve generations. He added that the market will create employment opportunities, including roles for administrators to manage operations on a 24-hour basis.

Additionally, he revealed that government is engaging manufacturers to explore the use of yam flour in the production of “fufuflour,” a move aimed at expanding market demand and improving incomes for yam farmers.