Bimbilla: President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled plans to construct modern multipurpose markets across the nation, fulfilling a major campaign promise aimed at creating wealth within beneficiary communities. These 24-hour economy markets are set to transform traditional market structures by integrating essential services such as banking, storage, fire and security services, as well as restaurants, cr¨ches, and clinics. The initiative is designed to cater to the diverse needs of traders, including provisions for emergency healthcare.
According to Ghana Web, President Mahama made these remarks during the sod-cutting ceremony for the new model market in Bimbilla, located in the Northern Region. Highlighting the significance of marketing in agriculture, he emphasized the essential role markets play in connecting farmers to consumers. He pointed out that, without a reliable market for produce, farming efforts can become futile. Bimbilla, recognized as a key food production area, has been identified as deserving of one of the largest modern markets.
The President also announced that the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) will collaborate to introduce value addition techniques that will extend the shelf life of food crops. This initiative aims to prevent market gluts and ensure that both farmers and traders can effectively recoup their investments.
During the event, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, issued a warning to contractors involved in the project. He stressed that any lapses in construction quality would not be tolerated and indicated that significant delays could result in contract termination.
In addition to the market project, President Mahama, accompanied by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, and other officials, took the opportunity to inspect the progress of a 300-capacity, three-storey hostel currently under construction at the Bimbilla EP College of Education.