Mahama Cuts Sod for 24-Hour Economy Market in Bimbilla

Bimbilla — President John Dramani Mahama has cut the sod for the construction of a 24-hour economy market in Bimbilla as part of his Resetting Ghana tour of the Northern Region.

The project, captured in the NDC manifesto, forms part of a broader national initiative to establish modern markets across all 261 districts to boost round-the-clock economic activity and strengthen local trade.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama emphasised the importance of markets in economic development, noting that access to markets is critical to maximising the value of agricultural production.

The Bimbilla facility, described as one of the largest model markets under the programme, will feature ten warehouses, a clinic, fire and police posts, banking services, crèches, and food outlets, all designed to support 24-hour operations.

The project is expected to enhance Bimbilla’s agricultural economy—particularly in yam, maize, beans, and groundnut production—by reducing post-harvest losses, stabilising prices, and improving farmer incomes through better processing and distribution.

President Mahama further noted that the initiative will create jobs and strengthen the agricultural value chain, while tasking authorities to ensure quality construction and sustainable management. The District Assembly is expected to oversee the facility through a dedicated market administration system.

He also clarified aspects of the Free Primary Healthcare programme, stating that tricycles and motorbikes being distributed are not ambulances, but are intended for outreach services, vaccination delivery, and community-based preventive care.