The Offinso North District Assembly has cut the sod for the construction of a 24-Hour Economy Model Market at Nkenkaasu in the Ashanti Region, marking a significant step towards promoting continuous economic activity and local development in the district.
The ceremony brought together the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Caesar Ofosu Acheampong, the District Coordinating Director, assembly members, traditional authorities, religious leaders, assembly staff and residents of the area.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Caesar Ofosu Acheampong said the project formed part of the government’s broader agenda to implement the 24-hour economy policy aimed at expanding economic opportunities, creating jobs and boosting productivity across the country.
He explained that the market would provide a modern and secure trading environment for farmers, traders and small-scale entrepreneurs while serving as a major commercial hub for agricultural produce, artisanal products and retail activities within the district.
According to the DCE, the initiative was designed to remove limitations associated with traditional trading hours and create an enabling environment for businesses to operate around the clock.
“The 24-Hour Economy Model Market is not merely an infrastructure project; it is a transformative intervention intended to improve livelihoods, stimulate local economic growth and position Offinso North as an active contributor to Ghana’s economic transformation agenda,” he stated.
Hon. Ofosu Acheampong noted that the project was aligned with the Government’s Medium-Term Development Policy Framework as well as the Assembly’s development priorities, adding that it reflected efforts to translate national policies into practical benefits for local communities.
He expressed confidence that the facility would attract investment, enhance market access for farmers and traders, and generate employment opportunities for the youth.
The Gyaasehene of the Nkenkaasu Traditional Council, Nana Takyi Amoah, commended the government and the district assembly for initiating the project and urged residents to support its successful implementation.
He stressed the need for unity and collective responsibility among community members, noting that the market’s success would depend largely on how well residents embraced and utilised the facility.
Nana Takyi Amoah also cautioned against partisan considerations in matters relating to the development of the district and called on residents to place the collective interest of the community above political differences.
He further appealed to Ghanaians to continue praying for President John Dramani Mahama and the District Chief Executive to enable them to effectively discharge their responsibilities towards national development.
The 24-Hour Economy Model Market is expected to enhance commercial activities in Nkenkaasu and surrounding communities while contributing to the government’s vision of creating a resilient and inclusive economy.
