Tamale 24-Hour Economy Market is biggest of all – President Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has cut the sod for the commencement of construction works on the 24-hour Economy Market at Kukuo in Tamale, describing it as the largest of all markets to be built under the government’s 24-hour Economy initiative.

The project, expected to be completed within 34 months, is however projected by contractors to be ready for commissioning within 24 months.

Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony on Saturday April 18, 2026, President Mahama said the Tamale market represents the largest model being rolled out under the initiative.

The ceremony was attended by chiefs and residents of the area.

He explained that market designs vary depending on whether they are developed in metropolitan, municipal or district assemblies.

President Mahama noted that the market project forms only one component of the broader 24-hour Economy initiative, which he described as a major economic transformation agenda aimed at stimulating production, trade, and job creation.

He said the Tamale facility is designed to support round-the-clock economic activity and will incorporate a wide range of commercial, social, and security services.

The market will include lockable shops, 132 open sheds for traders in foodstuffs, vegetables, and other produce, as well as open pavement space for about 160 small-scale traders.

It will also feature 10 warehouses for storage, a lorry terminal for produce deliveries, a transport terminal for commercial vehicles, a butcher shop, and a cold store for perishables.

President Mahama added that the facility will include a permanent police station and fire station to serve both the market and surrounding communities.

Other facilities include a clinic with six beds for basic admissions and observation, a pharmacy, a market manager’s office, an environmental health office, and an information centre to assist traders and customers with announcements and services.

Additional amenities include 16 shower units, 16 water closet toilets, a crèche for traders with young children, and a women’s bank to provide a secure space for savings.

He said the integrated design is intended to make the market not only a commercial centre but also a hub for essential services that improve convenience, safety, and productivity.

President Mahama also assured residents that government is working to secure funding to address the Tamale water crisis.

The Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, said the initiative aims to promote value addition to local produce, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and drive industrialisation.

The Gukpe-Naa, Paramount Chief of Tamale, whose remarks were read on his behalf, expressed appreciation to the President for improving livelihoods through the 24-hour Economy initiative.

He also commended ongoing road projects in the area, noting that they are already improving living conditions, while stressing that access to water remains critical to support market activities.