President John Dramani Mahama has directed contractors working on the government’s proposed 24-hour economy market projects across the country to complete all assigned works before receiving payment.
He explained that the directive is aimed at strengthening accountability in public project delivery and preventing situations where contractors receive advance payments but fail to complete projects.
President Mahama issued the directive on Friday during a sod-cutting ceremony for a 24-hour economy market at Assin Bereku in the Assin North District as part of his two-day working visit to the Central Region.
He reaffirmed that the 24-hour economy initiative remains a flagship policy of his administration, adding that the construction of modern markets under the programme will create jobs, boost local enterprise, and stimulate economic growth.
According to him, the new payment arrangement is necessary due to past experiences in which some contractors diverted funds or abandoned projects after receiving mobilization payments.
He stressed that government will now ensure that contractors demonstrate clear progress and complete projects before being paid.
Despite economic challenges, the President said government remains committed to fully implementing the 24-hour economy policy to improve livelihoods and drive national development.
The Paramount Chief of the Owirenkyi Traditional Area, Ahunabobrim Nana Prah Agyensaim VI, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a transformative policy with strong potential to create sustainable jobs and strengthen the local economy.
He urged Ghanaians to support the programme in the same spirit of unity shown towards the national football team, the Black Stars, stressing that collective backing would be key to its success.
The Chief expressed confidence that the policy would contribute significantly to Ghana’s socio-economic development if sustained with national commitment.
