Savannah Region signs contract for 24-hour economy markets to boost trade and growth

The Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Be-Awuribe, has officially signed contracts with contractors for the construction of modern 24-hour economy markets across the region, marking a major step in efforts to transform local commerce and drive economic growth.

The signing ceremony, held on April 2, 2026, brought together all seven Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs), alongside consultants and contractors, to commence what the Minister described as a landmark intervention under the government’s economic transformation agenda.

Addressing participants, Mr Be-Awuribe emphasised that the initiative forms part of a structured development model aimed at modernising trading activities and boosting cross-border commerce within the region.

He noted that the markets have been categorised into four design types based on their economic significance and trading volumes.

According to him, top-tier market infrastructure will be developed in key commercial centres such as Bole, Central Gonja (Buipe), and West Gonja (Damongo), with Damongo, the regional capital, selected for the highest category due to its strategic administrative and commercial importance.

Bole was also identified as a major trading hub attracting merchants from neighbouring countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, while Buipe was described as the commercial heartbeat of the region.

The Minister stressed that the projects are intended as long-term legacy infrastructure that will support economic activity for generations.

He urged contractors to prioritise quality, speed, and strict adherence to specifications, warning that failure to meet required standards would result in contract termination.

He also assured contractors of the government’s commitment to prompt payment, indicating that project funds are being channelled through District Assemblies, which now have improved financial capacity.

Drawing from his experience as a former District Chief Executive, he acknowledged past delays in resource releases but noted that the situation has significantly improved.

Mr Be-Awuribe further underscored the importance of delivering the projects successfully, describing the Savannah Region as the political home of President John Dramani Mahama and affirming the region’s readiness to meet national development expectations.

The 24-hour economy markets are expected to stimulate round-the-clock commercial activity, expand trading opportunities, improve market infrastructure, and strengthen both regional and international trade linkages.

The initiative forms part of broader government efforts to decentralise economic growth and position the Savannah Region as a key commercial gateway in northern Ghana.