24-Hour Economy Model Market to transform lives of women and youth – Faustina Abulu

The Municipal Chief Executive for the Kassena-Nankana Municipal Assembly, Faustina Akeyom Abulu, has lauded the 24-hour economy model market initiative introduced by the National Democratic Congress, describing it as a transformative project with the potential to improve the economic fortunes of traders, women, and the youth.

She made the remarks during the sod-cutting and handing-over ceremony for the construction of the 24-hour economy model market in Navrongo on Friday, May 8.

Addressing dignitaries, traditional authorities, traders, and other stakeholders at a brief ceremony held at the Navrongo New Market, Abulu expressed optimism about the impact of the project on the municipality.

“This project, when completed, will create jobs for our teaming youth, improve infrastructure, security, and revenue generation. Market women, this is a great opportunity for you, grab it with both hands,” she stated.

She further urged the consultant and contractor to execute quality work to ensure the project achieves its intended purpose. She also appealed to residents to offer their full cooperation to guarantee the successful implementation of the project.

The Member of Parliament for the Navrongo Central Constituency, Simon Akibange Aworigo, described the initiative as a fulfilled campaign promise.

“It is a very happy day for me because we made a promise and we have delivered. We said we would revitalise and build new markets in every district, and this is a manifestation of that promise,” he said.

According to him, the new model market will provide relief to traders, especially during the rainy season and harsh weather conditions that often destroy makeshift sheds, while also boosting the local economy.

The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, who led the sod-cutting ceremony, commended John Dramani Mahama for what he described as visionary leadership focused on addressing the needs of Ghanaians.

“President Mahama is a great and visionary leader. Through engaging citizens, he realised this was a critical need of the people. To address unemployment, he introduced the 24-hour economy policy, which is the foundation of this model market initiative,” he noted.

He added that the project would generate employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors due to its diverse operational components.

For his part, the Paramount Chief of the Navrongo Traditional Area, Pe Asagpaare II, appealed to government to ensure the timely release of funds to the contractor to facilitate the early completion of the project.

He also urged residents to cooperate with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the success of the initiative.

The 24-hour economy model market, when completed, will feature lockable shops and sheds, police and fire service posts, cold stores, a livestock bay, a women’s bank, a crèche, and other supporting facilities aimed at improving trading activities and enhancing local economic development.

Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | David Adapuna

Maseda Spices