Ho launches 24-hour economy market project to boost jobs

Ho 24-hour economy market project begins as municipal authorities hand over land for construction, aiming to boost trade, create jobs and support local economic growth.

HO, Ghana — 7 May 2026

The Ho 24-hour economy market project has officially commenced after the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ho, Stephen Adom, handed over a site for construction to a private contractor. The project, located at Titirnu in Ho, is expected to support trading activities, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local economic growth. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Adom described the initiative as a key step towards strengthening commercial activity and improving livelihoods in the municipality. “This project represents a major step towards strengthening local trade and supporting economic development in the municipality,” he said.

Ho 24-hour economy market project targets trade expansion

The Ho 24-hour economy market project forms part of broader efforts to expand economic activity beyond traditional trading hours. Authorities say the facility will provide structured space for traders, small businesses and informal sector operators, enabling extended commercial activity. The MCE expressed confidence in the contractor’s ability to deliver the project within the agreed timeframe and according to expected standards. “We believe the contractor will deliver quality work that will meet the expectations of the people,” he added.

Alignment with national economic strategy

Officials said the HO 24-hour economy market project aligns with government policy aimed at promoting economic empowerment and supporting small-scale enterprises. The concept of a 24-hour economy has been identified as a strategy to increase productivity, enhance job creation and maximise use of infrastructure. Local authorities noted that the market project is part of a wider framework for modernising trading environments and improving economic participation.

Human impact: traders and local businesses

For traders and small business owners, the project is expected to create new opportunities for income generation. Residents and market operators in Ho have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that the facility will expand business operations and improve access to customers. Extended trading hours could allow businesses to operate more flexibly, particularly in sectors such as food services, retail and transport. The project is also expected to create jobs during both the construction and operational phases.

Opposing view: implementation and sustainability concerns

While the project has received a warm welcome, some analysts highlight potential challenges in implementation. Concerns include whether sufficient demand will sustain round-the-clock trading and whether supporting infrastructure, such as security, transport and utilities, will develop adequately. Experience from similar initiatives suggests that 24-hour market systems require coordinated planning to ensure viability. Local authorities have urged stakeholders to cooperate with contractors to ensure smooth execution and address potential challenges early.

Community engagement and project delivery

The MCE called on residents and stakeholders to support the construction process, emphasising the importance of collaboration. He said the municipal assembly remains committed to infrastructure projects that promote economic transformation. Authorities indicated that they would put monitoring mechanisms in place to ensure the project meets expected standards and timelines.

What this means

The Ho 24-hour economy market project reflects a broader shift towards extended economic activity in Ghana. Traditionally, many Ghanaian markets limit trading to daytime hours.
The 24-hour model introduces a new structure aimed at increasing productivity. While the concept supports economic expansion, successful implementation depends on infrastructure, security and consistent demand. Countries with established 24-hour economies typically have strong transport systems, energy reliability and urban demand patterns.