Atwima Kwanwoma Marks New Economic Era With 24-Hour Market Project

The Atwima Kwanwoma District has taken a significant step towards economic transformation following the sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a state-of-the-art 24-Hour Economy Market at Twedie.

The project, which forms part of the government’s flagship 24-hour economy agenda, is expected to create jobs, boost local trade and provide a modern commercial centre capable of supporting business activities around the clock.

Addressing a gathering of traditional leaders, government officials, traders, market women and residents during the ceremony, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Grace Agyemang Asamoah, described the project as a landmark intervention that would redefine the economic fortunes of the district.

According to her, the facility will serve as a catalyst for growth and prosperity, while positioning Twedie as a major trading destination within the Ashanti Region and beyond.

“Today, we are not only cutting sod for a market project. We are laying the foundation for a new chapter of economic opportunity, growth and hope for the people of Atwima Kwanwoma,” she stated.

Mrs. Agyemang Asamoah explained that the initiative seeks to move local commerce beyond the traditional sunrise-to-sunset trading system by creating an environment where business activities can thrive day and night.

She noted that the project would provide expanded opportunities for traders, transport operators, artisans, farmers and young entrepreneurs, ultimately leading to increased household incomes and sustainable employment.

The DCE emphasized that markets remain the heartbeat of every local economy and stressed the need for modern infrastructure to meet the demands of the district’s growing population and commercial activities.

The modern market, when completed, will feature 132 sheds and open pavement trading spaces, 132 lockable shops, 160 open trading areas, 10 warehouses, a lorry terminal and a dedicated park for heavy-duty trucks.

Additional facilities will include a cold store, meat shops, a food court, restaurant facilities, a livestock trading area, a Women’s Bank, a shopping mall, barbering shops and other commercial service centres.

The project also incorporates critical social infrastructure such as a six-bed clinic, pharmacy, six-bed hostel, police post, fire post, Environmental Health Office, Market Manager’s Office, Information Centre and parcel office with storage facilities.

To promote sanitation and public health, the market will be equipped with modern drainage systems, refuse collection points, 24 shower facilities and 24 water closets. The facility will also be disability-friendly to ensure accessibility for all users.

Mrs. Agyemang Asamoah observed that the market would be particularly beneficial to farmers across the district, providing them with a reliable outlet for agricultural produce and helping to reduce post-harvest losses.

She added that the project is expected to generate both direct and indirect employment opportunities, stimulate entrepreneurship, increase the Assembly’s internally generated revenue and strengthen agribusiness activities in the area.

The DCE appealed to the contractor to deliver quality work within the stipulated timeframe and urged residents to support and protect the project throughout the construction period.

She expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and the government for bringing the project to Atwima Kwanwoma and acknowledged the contributions of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Assembly Members, departmental heads and other stakeholders who played various roles in making the initiative a reality.

In a gesture that drew applause from the audience, Mrs. Agyemang Asamoah commended the Member of Parliament for Atwima Kwanwoma for his commitment to the district’s development, despite belonging to a different political party.

She also paid glowing tribute to the traditional authorities, especially the Chief of Toase and his elders, for making land available for the project and for their continued support for development initiatives in the district.

As construction begins, residents remain hopeful that the ambitious project will not only transform trading activities in Twedie but also unlock new opportunities for economic growth, investment and job creation across Atwima Kwanwoma.