The 24-hour economy market is a compulsory undertaking for all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies as contained in guidelines for the use of the District Assembly common fund with specific allocation of fund for its execution.

According to the Municipal Chief Executive, Alhaji Nurah Issah Danwana, the congestion around the market square and main transport routes is a concern to businesses and commuters, and the Assembly is poised to find lasting solution to the ordeal by instituting a number of measures which includes the 24-hour economy market.

“The 24-hour market will allow traders to operate in shifts; and it will help decongest the area during the day while boosting business opportunities at night.”

This market, he stated will be equipped with modern lighting, security, and sanitation facilities to ensure safe and hygienic trading conditions.

Additionally, there will be the setting up of satellite markets, which he deemed the most effective ways to reduce overcrowding at the central market; adding that traders prefer to sell at the heart of the city because of visibility and traffic. But once the satellite markets are completed and well-equipped, they will attract customers and create balance.

The Wa Municipal Assembly, he said, will collaborate with the traditional authorities and market associations to ensure fair allocation of stalls and proper management of the new market centers.

The MCE who was addressing the media after their turn at the Committee on Local Government and Rural Development on efforts to modernize the Municipality’s urban infrastructure said they are also looking at the construction of a bypass road, designed to divert heavy-duty trucks and long vehicles – especially those from francophone countries – away from the central business area.

“Most of these long vehicles pass right through the city center. When the bypass is completed, it will reduce traffic congestion, minimize accidents, and make movement within the municipality smoother,” he MCE said.

He added that the Assembly is working with the Ministry of Roads and Highways to secure the necessary approvals and funding for the project.

Alhaji Danwana emphasized that the decongestion strategy aligns with the Assembly’s urban renewal agenda, which seeks to improve access roads, sanitation, and public infrastructure within Wa.

“We are opening up inner and outer city roads and creating more access points to make movement easier. Our goal is to make Wa a clean, well-planned, and business-friendly.”

“This is not about relocating anyone unfairly — it’s about making Wa work better for everyone. “When the congestion is reduced, movement becomes easier, businesses grow faster, and the city becomes more attractive to investors,” he said.

The MCE urged residents, traders, and transport unions to support the initiative, saying it would ultimately improve business conditions and quality of life in the municipality.