The Greater Accra Regional Minister and Member of Parliament for Shai Osudoku, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo has cut sod for the construction of a modern 24-hour economy market at Shai Osudoku.

The sod-cutting ceremony held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 , was attended by the District Chief Executive, the District Coordinating Director, traditional leaders, assembly members, heads of departments, representatives of the private sector, traders, farmers, artisans, and the media.

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Ocloo said: “It is a great honour and privilege to be here today as we mark this important milestone in the development of the 24-hour economy market at Shai Osudoku. As the Greater Accra Regional Minister and, more importantly, as the Member of Parliament for the good people of Shai Osudoku, I am particularly delighted to witness this initiative, which has the potential to create significant economic opportunities for our people."

She explained that the 24-hour economy market is a practical step in achieving government's vision.

"The 24-hour economy is one of the priority programmes of government aimed at expanding economic activity, creating jobs, increasing productivity and providing opportunities for businesses and individuals to improve their livelihoods. The establishment of this market at the local level is therefore a practical demonstration of Government's commitment to translating this vision into tangible opportunities for our communities."

Hon. Ocloo, who has been a strong advocate for women's empowerment, emphasised the critical role of markets to women.

"As your Member of Parliament for Shai Osudoku and a woman who has consistently advocated for the advancement and empowerment of women, I fully appreciate the importance of markets in our society. For many women, particularly those engaged in petty trading, food processing, agriculture and small-scale businesses, the market is their workplace, their source of income and, in many cases, the means through which they support their families and educate their children."

"This is why I attach particular importance to the development of modern, safe and well-organised markets that provide our women, young people and other entrepreneurs with the opportunity to grow their businesses."

She urged the beneficiaries to take full advantage of the project saying "to our women, young people, traders and prospective beneficiaries, I urge you to see this project as an opportunity to expand your businesses, create employment and contribute to the economic development of Shai Osudoku."

The Minister also commended government and stakeholders, stating "let me commend His Excellency the President and Government for making the 24-Hour Economy a key priority and for ensuring that its implementation reaches communities such as ours. I also commend the Assembly, traditional authorities, technical teams and all stakeholders whose efforts have contributed to bringing this project to this important stage”.

Hon. Ocloo urged the contractor to prioritize local labour.

"I wish to appeal to the contractor to use the people of Shai Osudoku District for the building of the project to help reduce joblessness in the area."

She also reaffirmed her commitment to development. 

"I wish to assure my constituents that I remain committed to supporting initiatives that improve livelihoods, create opportunities for our youth, empower our women and promote the socio-economic development of our constituency."

"As we mark this important occasion, let us look forward to a market that will become a vibrant centre of commerce, employment and enterprise, serving not only the people of Shai Osudoku but contributing to the broader economic transformation of the Greater Accra Region,” she stressed.

"May the project be completed on schedule, to the required standards and, most importantly, to the benefit of our people."