As part of efforts to boost local-level commercial activity and advance Ghana’s economic reset agenda, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to allocate 25% of the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) towards the development of 24-hour economy model markets across the country.
The initiative is expected to expand trading opportunities for small businesses, enhance productivity, and promote inclusive economic growth at the grassroots.
Speaking at the opening of the Evidence to Action Conference and Exhibition in Accra, the Minister for Local Government, Sanitation, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, emphasised the importance of using evidence-based research to ensure government policies deliver meaningful impact.
“The government of the President of the Republic is doing a reset agenda where he has directed from Cabinet that we must send 80% of the DACF to all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs),” he said.
He explained that under this directive, assemblies are now receiving in one quarter what they would previously get in an entire year.
“There are clear guidelines where we are going to champion the 24-hour economy market. Every ministry is taking part, but we are implementing this at the sub-district level,” he added.
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Mr. Ibrahim further disclosed that 25% of the 80% being allocated to the assemblies will be dedicated to the construction of these modern markets, noting “You have to build a market that can operate 24/7.
“So, when we come to a university like this, we can site one here. It will have a pharmacy, a police station, a fire station, a banking hall — all the facilities will be there to operate round the clock.”
He explained that these markets are designed to support the government’s vision of a 24-hour economy and to help drive job creation, improve safety, and boost productivity.
“These markets will not only serve as trading hubs but will create jobs and enhance security within the localities,” he said.
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