In a landmark move aimed at transforming the socio-economic landscape of the Bawku West District, a formal sod-cutting ceremony has been held to commence the construction of an ultra-modern 24-hour market Friday morning.

The project, described as a fulfillment of a key campaign promise by President John Dramani Mahama, is expected to serve as a major engine for growth and job creation in the region.

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, stating that it demonstrates the President’s ability to “think outside the box.” He emphasized that the facility is more than just a trading post; it is a strategic legacy project designed to address the pressing challenge of youth unemployment by providing diverse commercial opportunities around the clock.

To ensure the project’s successful completion within the 18-month timeline, the Minister revealed that specific tranches of the District Assembly fund have already been ring-fenced, providing a dedicated financial stream for construction.

The project is designed to be a comprehensive center for trade and community services. According to the project specifications, the facility will include:

Commercial Space: Lockable shops, sheds/stalls, a minimart, and a dedicated warehouse.

Specialized Zones: A meat section, cold store, and a “bulk breaking” area for wholesale trade.

Essential Services: A fire post, police post, security post, clinic, and pharmacy.

Community & Welfare: A food court, restaurant, gym, day care center, and a Women’s Bank to support female entrepreneurs.

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Bawku West, Hon. James Ayamwego, expressed profound gratitude to the President for redeeming his pledge, noting that the market is essential for the district’s expansion. This sentiment 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 expressed confidence that, unlike other projects where work stalls after the first stone is laid, the President’s commitment to dedicated funding would ensure this market is completed on schedule.

The Regional Minister issued a stern appeal to local landowners and the youth regarding the supply of construction materials. He noted that project delays often occur when contractors are denied access to sand and gravel deposits. While acknowledging the rights of landowners, he urged them to be reasonable and “not exploitative” in their charges, citing the example of the community members who donated the project land for free.

The Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Hon. Ebenezer Alumire Ndebilla, charged the community to take “ownership” of the project and support the contractor to meet the deadline. He further advised 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.