The construction of 24-hour markets in all 261 districts will ensure there are no post-harvest losses - Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his commitment to supporting farmers across Ghana, outlining plans to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access through the government’s 24-hour economy programme.

Addressing farmers and residents in Bimbilla as part of his “Resetting Ghana” tour of the Northern Region on April 18, Mr. Mahama emphasized that the construction of 24-hour markets in all 261 districts will help ensure that agricultural produce does not go to waste due to lack of buyers.

According to him, one of the most effective ways to stimulate economic activity and improve money circulation is through well-structured markets that operate around the clock.

He noted that the initiative is designed to strengthen the link between farmers, traders, and households, while also creating jobs and boosting local economies.

“These markets will not only serve as trading hubs but will also include warehouses, clinics, banks, restaurants, and administrative offices to support 24-hour operations,” he stated.

The President began his two-day tour in the Nanumba North Municipality, where he cut sod for the construction of a 24-hour market in Bimbilla, a major food-producing area expected to benefit significantly from the initiative.

President Mahama stressed that many farmers continue to suffer heavy losses during peak harvest seasons, particularly with perishable crops such as yam, due to poor storage facilities and limited access to ready markets.

As part of his visit, the President also cut sod for the construction of accommodation facilities at Bimbilla Senior High School and the Evangelical Presbyterian College of Education to improve infrastructure for teaching and learning.

In Tamale, Mr. Mahama further cut sod for another 24-hour economy market at Kukuo and inspected ongoing infrastructure projects under the government’s “Big Push” development agenda.

The 24-hour market initiative forms part of broader efforts to modernize Ghana’s agricultural value chain, reduce waste, and ensure farmers receive better returns for their produce while improving food availability nationwide.