President John Dramani Mahama has directed contractors assigned to execute government’s proposed 24-hour economy market projects across the country to complete the projects before receiving payment, in a move aimed at strengthening accountability and preventing abandoned projects.
According to the President, the directive has become necessary due to past experiences where some contractors failed to complete government projects after receiving advance payments.
President Mahama announced the new policy while addressing chiefs and residents of Assin Bereku in the Assin North District during a sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a 24-hour economy market as part of his two-day working tour of the Central Region.
He reiterated that the 24-hour economy policy remains one of his administration’s flagship programmes and assured Ghanaians of government’s commitment to fully implementing the initiative despite prevailing economic challenges.
The President explained that the establishment of modern markets under the 24-hour economy programme is expected to create jobs, support local businesses, increase productivity, and stimulate economic growth across the country.
“This time, contractors will have to complete the projects before government makes payment,” President Mahama stressed, noting that the measure is intended to ensure that public projects are executed efficiently and on schedule.
He indicated that previous administrations had encountered situations where contractors diverted funds meant for projects into other ventures, resulting in delayed or abandoned infrastructure projects.
President Mahama maintained that although his administration inherited significant economic difficulties, government remains focused on delivering policies and programmes that will improve livelihoods and accelerate national development.
He added that the 24-hour economy policy is designed to expand economic opportunities by encouraging continuous business operations, creating employment for the youth, and improving productivity in key sectors of the economy.
Meanwhile, the Paramount Chief of the Owirenkyi Traditional Area, Ahunabobrim Nana Prah Agyensaim VI, commended President Mahama for introducing the 24-hour economy initiative, describing it as a bold policy with the potential to transform Ghana’s economy.
The Paramount Chief acknowledged that the initiative may face criticism from sections of the public but expressed confidence that the policy could generate sustainable employment opportunities and improve economic activities if fully implemented.
He urged the President not to be discouraged by critics and called on Ghanaians to support the initiative for the collective good of the country.
Drawing a comparison with the unity and national support often shown to Ghana’s senior national football team, the Black Stars, Ahunabobrim Nana Prah Agyensaim VI appealed to citizens to rally behind the 24-hour economy agenda in the interest of national development.
He officially welcomed the policy and expressed optimism that it would contribute significantly to Ghana’s socio-economic transformation.
Story by Yaw Boagyan
