The Vice Chairman, Select Committee On Local Government and Member of Parliament for Agotime-Ziope, Honourable Charles Akwasi Agbeve has stated that land acquisition remains one of the biggest obstacles confronting the rollout of the government’s 24 hour economy market policy. He indicated that several Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies are adjusting project designs to fit limited land spaces.
In outlining the strategies of implementation for the initiative, Honourable Agbeve explained that all 261 MMDAs are expected to secure land for the construction of new markets to support round the clock economic activity. He added that assemblies with existing market structures may modernise or redevelop those facilities to meet the policy’s objectives.
The Vice Chairman noted that some assemblies are already taking practical steps to adapt to local realities. He cited the Western Region where an old market is being upgraded alongside a newly planned 24 hour economy market.
A key issue, however, is access to adequate land for the full design of the projects. Agotime-Ziope MP indicated that the challenge is more severe in municipal and metropolitan areas where assemblies often do not control sizeable parcels of land.
Speaking on developments in Greater Accra, Honourable Agbeve revealed that some assemblies have been compelled to scale down original plans. He said one chief executive informed the committee that he was able to secure only 1.7 acres instead of the required four acres.
“Some assemblies are having challenges with getting land. One Chief Executive made it clear to us she cannot get the four acres, so they are scaling down the plan to fit the land available.”
Honourable Charles Akwasi Agbeve
Similarly, Ayawaso East was also unable to secure the required acreage for the full project design. The Vice Chairman said planners are modifying infrastructure layouts by moving car parks underground to maximise the available 1.9 acres.
Beyond planning adjustments, Honourable Agbeve stressed the need for stronger collaboration between local authorities and traditional leaders. He argued that practical solutions would emerge when assemblies engage chiefs and landowners early in the process.
Addressing the demolition of structures linked to market expansion, The Vice Chairman described recent developments in Wa as troubling. He added that ownership rights and prior legal settlements remain central in determining final decisions over disputed lands.
He further indicated that where landowners have legally sanctioned redevelopment, assemblies must work within those established boundaries. Honourable Agbeve remarked that dialogue remains essential to prevent disputes from escalating as implementation advances.
Committee Pushes Safer Site Selection After Tindamba School Demolition
The Vice Chairman, Select Committee On Local Government and MP for Agotime-Ziope, Honourable Charles Akwasi Agbeve said parliamentary oversight on the 24 hour economy market projects now extends beyond construction to the protection of public infrastructure. He stated that site selection and land registration have become critical safeguards.
Discussing the committee’s regional monitoring exercise, Honourable Agbeve said the team has so far assessed projects in the Western Region, Central Region and Greater Accra. He added that the Eastern Region is next on the inspection schedule as the committee gathers a wider national assessment.
The Vice Chairman explained that a full account of disputes remains premature because regional inspections are still ongoing. Still, he noted that land scarcity continues to dominate reports received from Greater Accra.
In many districts, assemblies are revising project scopes to ensure available spaces can still accommodate essential facilities. He said these adjustments are helping local authorities remain eligible for the programme despite logistical limitations.
Environmental suitability is the main focus of the committee before construction begins. Honourable Agbeve said the committee is insisting that assemblies avoid flood prone and marshy lands when selecting market sites.
“We insist on making sure it is a good location. We do not expect assemblies to choose flooding areas. One heavy rain can destroy the whole market.”
Honourable Charles Akwasi Agbeve
He noted that the ongoing rainy season has exposed vulnerable lands, making inspections more effective. The Vice Chairman said this offers planners a practical opportunity to identify unsuitable sites before construction starts.
Another major issue raised by Honourable Agbeve involved public land ownership and legal documentation. He argued that proper registration of state lands could prevent avoidable disputes involving public institutions.
Using the Tindamba School demolition as an example, The Vice Chairman pointed to the failed ability in land protection. He said stronger documentation by the Ghana Education Service could have changed the outcome.
“I want to believe if the school land had been owned and walled, it would have become the property of the Ghana Education Service. I do not think we would get here.”
Honourable Charles Akwasi Agbeve
Against this backdrop, the committee is urging assemblies to secure titles and strengthen boundary protections before infrastructure projects commence. Honourable Agbeve emphasised that protecting public assets must remain central as the 24 hour economy policy expands across the country.
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