Correspondence from the Eastern Region

President John Dramani Mahama on Friday, May 01, 2026, cut the sod in Asesewa for the construction of 33 modern 24-hour markets across all 33 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in the Eastern Region, marking a major step in the government’s push to operationalise a 24-hour economy.

The ceremony, held in the Upper Manya Krobo District, positioned Asesewa as the regional launch site for the initiative, reflecting its historical significance as a once-thriving commercial hub.

Chiefs Tie Market Success To Roads And Water

While the project promises to transform trade and job creation, the Chief of Asesewa, Nene Offei Tagbaja, used the occasion to emphasise that infrastructure—particularly roads and water—will determine its success.

He traced the origins of the Asesewa market to 1935, noting that it rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s as one of the most vibrant trading centres in Ghana and across West Africa before declining due to neglect and lack of modernization.

“This is not just a project,” he said. “It is the restoration of dignity and pride and an opportunity to revive the economic life of our people.”

However, he cautioned that without urgent intervention in road infrastructure, farming communities in the district would struggle to transport produce to the market.

“With many farming communities here, good roads are essential to ensure that goods can be moved easily,” he stressed.

On water, the chief highlighted a longstanding concern that communities in the district continue to face shortages despite being the source of water supplied to other areas.

“We are facing serious water challenges. This is critical for our people,” he appealed.

Mahama Assures Action On Infrastructure

Responding directly to the concerns, President Mahama acknowledged the central role of infrastructure in making the 24-hour market concept viable.

“You cannot have a big market without good roads,” he said, indicating that Asesewa would be included in feeder road projects under a World Bank-supported programme.

He revealed that discussions had already begun with local leadership to secure road upgrades for the district.

On water supply, the President referenced an earlier pipeline project that bypassed local communities and pledged to correct the situation.

“Water is life,” he said. “We will ensure that Asesewa and surrounding communities benefit from the water project.”

24-Hour Market Policy And Economic Impact

The 33 markets form part of a broader national strategy to stimulate continuous economic activity by enabling businesses to operate around the clock.

Key expected benefits include, expanded trading hours and increased commercial activity, job creation for youth, traders, and artisans, improved market access for farmers, reduction in post-harvest losses and strengthening of local economies across the region.

MP Highlights Job Creation And Economic Opportunities

The Member of Parliament for Upper Manya Krobo, Bismarck Tetteh Nyarko, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major opportunity for economic growth.

“This market will operate 24 hours, meaning people can buy and sell at any time. It will create jobs and expand opportunities for farmers and traders,” he said.

He explained that the new markets would complement existing traditional markets, which will continue to operate on designated market days.

DCE Highlights District’s Role As Food Basket

The District Chief Executive for Upper Manya Krobo, Emmanuel Kwesi Lawer, described the area as a key agricultural hub and food basket, explaining that Asesewa was deliberately chosen to host the 33 24-hour markets due to its strong farming base and economic potential.

He noted that despite its importance in food production, development has lagged, but expressed confidence that the new market will boost growth, sustain itself through continuous agricultural activity, and strengthen the local economy.

Implementation And Timeline

Consultants for the project, led by architect Benjamin Ofei of Fedems Limited, indicated that funding has been secured through the District Assemblies Common Fund.

The Asesewa facility is part of a standardised model design and is expected to be completed within 18 to 24 months, with contractors expressing confidence in delivering earlier if conditions remain favourable.

Local artisans and labour are expected to be actively engaged in the construction process.

Strategic Launch Point

Stakeholders noted that Asesewa’s selection as the launch site reflects its status as a key agricultural zone and food-producing area within the Eastern Region.

As the rollout of 33 markets begins, expectations are high that the initiative will revive historic trading centres, strengthen regional economies, and position the Eastern Region as a major driver of Ghana’s 24-hour economy—provided that critical infrastructure such as roads and water is delivered alongside the markets.