The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, has urged Traditional Authorities in the Volta Region to strengthen collaboration with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to ensure the successful implementation of Government’s 24-Hour Model Market initiative, a key pillar of Ghana’s 24-hour economy agenda.
According to the Minister, the initiative is designed to establish modern, one-stop commercial hubs across the country to stimulate round-the-clock economic activity, decongest existing central markets, create jobs, and enhance local economic development. He noted that the role of chiefs, as custodians of land, is critical to the realization of the project, particularly in making suitable lands available for the construction of the proposed markets.
Hon. Ibrahim made these remarks during a familiarisation visit to the Volta Regional House of Chiefs in Ho on Friday, 23rd January 2026. The visit formed part of his nationwide engagement with Regional Houses of Chiefs to deepen collaboration and reaffirm Government’s commitment to strengthening the chieftaincy institution. He conveyed warm greetings from President John Dramani Mahama and reiterated Government’s unwavering respect for chieftaincy as guaranteed under the 1992 Constitution.
Addressing the House, chaired by its President, Togbe Tepre Hodo IV, Paramount Chief of the Anfoega Traditional Area, the Minister described the Volta Regional House of Chiefs as a strategic partner in governance, peacebuilding, and development. He acknowledged the House’s role in preserving culture and customary law, resolving disputes, and promoting social cohesion in a region noted for its diversity and growing socio-economic importance.
On the 24-Hour Model Market initiative, Hon. Ibrahim disclosed that procurement processes are currently underway to engage contractors to replicate standardized satellite market designs nationwide. He explained that the markets will complement existing trading centers and contribute to the decongestion of major urban markets. He assured the House that Traditional Authorities who support the project through land acquisition will be duly recognized for their contribution to national development.
Reaffirming Government’s respect for the institution of chieftaincy as guaranteed under the 1992 Constitution, the Minister described the Volta Regional House of Chiefs as a key pillar in Ghana’s governance architecture. He praised the House for its role in preserving culture, resolving disputes, and maintaining peace and social cohesion in the region. According to him, sustainable development at the local level cannot be achieved without strong partnerships between Government and Traditional Authorities.
Source: Chantal Aidoo
Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA
