Bono East Regional Minister Francis Owusu Antwi visited the Techiman 24‑hour economy model market site on Tuesday, September 8, to assess the work completed just over three months after contractors took over.
He lauded the contractors for both the pace and quality of execution, noting that the project is on track to finish within the six‑month target. The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to providing the necessary funds to ensure the market is completed on schedule.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the inspection, Mr Owusu Antwi highlighted the strategic importance of the project for the region’s economic transformation. "The rehabilitation will improve businesses and spur rapid socio‑economic growth and development. It would create more job opportunities for the locals," he said.
The Techiman Central Market already attracts traders from neighbouring countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Ivory Coast, and is described as one of the most vibrant markets in the country. Upgrading the facility, the minister added, will attract more investment and help build the local economy.
The new model market is part of Ghana’s broader 24‑hour economy agenda, which aims to roll out modern, round‑the‑clock commercial hubs across all 261 districts. The facility will feature round‑the‑clock banking, cold storage, warehouses, clinics, pharmacies, day‑care centres and dedicated police and fire posts for enhanced security.
Issah Mahamud Ali, Public Relations Officer for the contractor, detailed the project’s scope, outlining the number of blocks the completed market will contain and assuring the public of the contractor’s commitment to quality and timely delivery.
Mr Owusu Antwi described the expansion as a "major turning point for businesses in the region", noting that the current market’s popularity often leads to congestion. He emphasized that the upgraded market would provide ample space for traders and buyers, boost economic growth, create new opportunities for young entrepreneurs, spur job creation and significantly increase revenue for the metropolis.
The upgrade is expected to decongest the existing facility, reduce post‑harvest losses through modern storage, and generate continuous employment for local residents and regional traders. President John Dramani Mahama has previously described Bono East as a key region in Ghana’s national economy, and the Techiman market is one of six major markets under the government’s Big Push Agenda.
With sustained funding and steady progress, the vision of a vibrant, 24‑hour commercial heart for Bono East is quickly becoming a reality. The project is slated for completion within six months and handover for use, marking a significant milestone in the region’s economic development journey.
