The Volta Region has taken a significant step toward implementing the government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy policy, following the signing of contracts for the construction of modern market facilities across all 18 Municipal and District Assemblies.

The contract signing ceremony, held under the auspices of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, marks the official commencement of a transformative initiative aimed at stimulating local economies, creating jobs, and promoting inclusive growth throughout the region.

The project forms part of the government’s broader agenda to operationalize the national 24-Hour Economy policy, which seeks to transition Ghana from an import-dependent, eight-hour work culture to a 24-hour, production-driven and export-oriented economy.

The Volta Regional Minister James Gunu described the initiative as a practical and strategic intervention that will significantly improve livelihoods across the region. He emphasised that the policy is not merely a directive but a clear pathway to job creation, increased productivity, and inclusive economic growth.

According to the Regional Minister, the market projects will modernise trading spaces, improve infrastructure, and create new opportunities for traders, artisans, and young people to engage in round-the-clock commercial activities.

To ensure effective implementation, Mr. Gunu directed all assemblies to establish 24-Hour Economy Market Implementation Committees to oversee the projects and ensure strict adherence to quality standards and timelines.

He further urged contractors, assemblies, and community leaders to uphold transparency, deliver quality work, and complete the projects on schedule, stressing that the success of the initiative depends on the collective commitment of all stakeholders.

Mr. Gunu disclosed that each market complex will be equipped with modern facilities, including a police station, fire station, clinic, kindergarten, 30 lockable shops, guest rooms, parking spaces, and other essential amenities. He noted that the projects rank among the government’s top priority interventions and are expected to deliver substantial benefits, particularly for women and the youth.

He called on the various Municipal and District Assemblies to setup a 24-Hour Economy Market Implementation Committees to oversee the projects and ensure strict adherence to quality standards and timelines.

The District Chief Executive for North Dayi, Ernest Adevor, described the project as a transformational intervention that will significantly alter the economic fortunes of the district. He said the initiative would create new avenues for trade, attract investment, generate sustainable employment, and accelerate socio-economic development.

Mr Adevor added that the project has the potential to position North Dayi as a thriving commercial hub, improve livelihoods, and empower local businesses, especially women and the youth, while driving growth in surrounding communities.

The District Chief Executive for Anloga, Sandra Seyram Kpedor, said indicated that a four-acre parcel of land at the current Anloga Market has been designated for the construction of the district’s 24-Hour Economy Market.

She said the project will modernize and upgrade infrastructure at the site to support continuous economic activities for traders, artisans, and young people.

The 24-Hour Economy Market initiative remains a central pillar of the government’s economic agenda, aimed at boosting production, facilitating trade, and promoting sustainable development nationwide.

In the Volta Region, expectations are high that the projects will unlock new economic opportunities, empower local businesses, and position the region as a leading model for the successful implementation of the policy.