“Who will buy Koobi at midnight?” – Asebu Chief questions Mahama’s 24-hour market plan

The Chief of the Asebu Traditional Area in the Central Region, Nana Okatakyi Prof. Amanfi VII, has questioned plans to establish a 24-hour market in the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese District, arguing that the predominantly agricultural area needs different development priorities.

The chief said the district’s economy was largely driven by farming, with residents producing crops including cassava, maize and oranges.

The chief said he supported the government’s 24-hour market policy in principle but questioned whether the model was suitable for his district. He argued that existing markets in the district should instead be rehabilitated to address more pressing development needs.

“We don’t need this type of market in this district. Abura/Asebu/Kwamankese is a purely agricultural district. What we do is planting,” the traditional ruler said.

“But honestly looking at the developmental issues in my district it will be proper to rehabilitate existing markets,” he said.

Nana Amanfi also questioned the proposed location of the market and whether there would be sufficient demand for late-night trading in the largely rural district.

“I have no idea where they will site this market, but I doubt my people will go there at 12 o’clock to buy salted fish (Koobi),” he said.

Nana Amanfi was speaking to sub-chiefs and residents of Asebu during the launch of the 2026 Apayamkese Festival.

His remarks come as the government promotes its 24-hour economy policy, which seeks to extend economic activity beyond conventional daytime operating hours through targeted interventions in various sectors.

AsaaseRadio