Government to remodel 24-hour markets, rename project District Model Markets – Ayariga

The government is re-evaluating the design and objectives of its 24-hour market initiative, with plans to rename the project "District Model Markets," according to Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Mahama Ayariga. Announcing the decision during the Government Accountability Series on Monday, October 5, Mr Ayariga explained that the review came after discussions on optimizing the projects in line with available resources and ensuring they are completed within a two-year timeframe.

President John Dramani Mahama had already laid the foundation stone for the implementation of the flagship markets in seven regions, with the projects now situated at different stages of development across the 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). Ayariga stated that ongoing deliberations aimed at remodeling the designs and rescope the project to align with the budget and the urgent need to complete the markets within two years.

Furthermore, negotiations have been finalized, allowing contractors to resume work on the Kumasi Central Market Phase II and Takoradi Market Circle projects. The minister emphasized that the market program would be integrated into the government's broader strategy to foster local economic development and enhance trading infrastructure nationwide.

The proposed modifications are anticipated to ensure better alignment of the market projects with available resources, all while upholding the government's commitment to providing enhanced trading facilities across the country.