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Gov’t renames ‘24-hour economy market to ‘District Economy Market’

The government has renamed its much-touted 24-Hour Economy Market project as the District Economy Market, in a move aimed at dispelling the perception that the government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy policy is solely about markets.

Date Created : 10/7/2026 : Story Author : Emmanuel Frimpong/Ghanadistricts.com

The announcement was made by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, at the government’s Accountability Series on Monday.

According to the Minister, the name “24-Hour Economy Market” had created the impression that markets were at the heart of the government’s broader 24-Hour Economy policy.

He explained that the new District Economy Market concept is intended to better reflect the programme’s objective of ensuring that every district has a modern, model market to support local economic activity, businesses and job creation.

Mr. Ayariga said the markets are at various stages of construction across the country, with the initiative forming part of the government’s broader efforts to drive economic activity at the district level.

Touching on their construction, Mr Ayariga said the government has re-scoped the District Economy Market projects into two phases to ensure faster delivery and a more structured financing arrangement.

He noted that Phase One will focus on the construction of market stalls, sheds and other essential commercial spaces, while Phase Two will provide social amenities, including police and fire stations, as well as other facilities that may be incorporated into the markets.

He added that Phase One is expected to be completed by 2028, while Phase Two will commence in subsequent years under the same District Assemblies Common Fund financing arrangement.

He added that the projects are currently at various stages of construction across all 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

The Minister also disclosed that the government has established a committee to assess the pace and quality of work on the projects. He warned that contractors who demonstrate a lack of capacity to execute the projects will have their contracts terminated and reassigned to more competent contractors.