Sunyani: Mr Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has directed Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to acquire lands to speed up the construction of the 24-hour markets. He emphasized the importance of selecting strategic locations and urged the Assemblies to work closely with traditional authorities to secure suitable sites for these markets.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Ibrahim issued this directive during a meeting with the Bono Regional House of Chiefs in Sunyani. He explained that MMDAs could choose from four market models designed for the 24-hour market project, depending on their capacities. The government's responsibility, he noted, includes engaging consultants, developing market models, and mobilizing funding, while MMDAs and local chiefs are expected to collaborate in securing appropriate lands for the projects.
Mr Ibrahim highlighted the necessity of accessible market locations, stating, "If for example a market is located in an inaccessible area and can't be assessed at night, that defeats the purpose of the 24-hour economy markets and can't be blamed on the government." He also mentioned that committees had been formed to evaluate applications from districts and municipalities seeking elevation to municipal and metropolitan status, with these applications currently under consideration.
Mr Joseph Addae Akwaboa, the Bono Regional Minister, praised the region's traditional authorities and encouraged the formal establishment of the 'Bonokyempim Council' to boost coordinated development in the Bono and Bono East Regions. He announced plans for a 'Public Accountability Series' in April to report on his tenure and outline ongoing regional development programs.
Okokyeredom Sakyi Ako II, Vice President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of the Drobo Traditional Area, expressed concerns about the challenges facing the House, including inadequate personnel and logistics. He highlighted the need for bailiffs and registrars in many traditional councils and appealed to the Ministry for support in the ongoing rehabilitation of the House's office complex.