24-Hour Market To Transform Ahafo Ano South West

The Ahafo Ano South West District in the Ashanti Region is poised for significant economic transformation following the commencement of work on a modern 24-Hour Economy Market at Mankranso.

The project, which forms part of the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy, is expected to create employment opportunities, enhance local commerce and position the district as a major commercial hub within the region.

The sod-cutting ceremony attracted traditional authorities, assembly members, traders, market women, government officials, NDC executives and residents, all of whom gathered to witness the launch of the landmark project.

Speaking at the event, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Abubakari Sadiq, described the market as a game-changing intervention that would redefine the economic fortunes of the district.

According to him, the facility forms a key component of the government’s 24-hour economy agenda, which seeks to stimulate productivity, encourage investment and create jobs through round-the-clock economic activities.

“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 prosperity for the people of Ahafo Ano South West,” he stated.

The DCE explained that the project would move local commerce beyond the traditional daytime trading system by creating an environment where businesses can operate throughout the day and night.

He noted that traders, transport operators, artisans, farmers and young entrepreneurs stand to benefit immensely from the initiative through increased business opportunities and improved incomes.

Hon. Sadiq stressed that markets remain the heartbeat of every local economy and therefore require modern infrastructure capable of supporting growing commercial activities.

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

Additional facilities will include a cold store, meat shops, food courts, restaurants, livestock trading centres, a Women’s Bank, shopping mall, barbering shops and other commercial service centres designed to support a vibrant 24-hour business environment.

The project will also provide essential social amenities, including a six-bed clinic, pharmacy, six-bed hostel, police post, fire post, Environmental Health Office, Market Manager’s Office, information centre and parcel storage facility.

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

The DCE indicated that the project would provide a ready market for agricultural produce, helping farmers reduce post-harvest losses while strengthening agribusiness activities across the district.

He further stated that the project would generate both direct and indirect employment, encourage entrepreneurship and increase the Assembly’s Internally Generated Funds (IGF).

Hon. Sadiq appealed to the contractor to ensure quality work and complete the project within the stipulated period. He also urged residents to support and protect the facility throughout the construction phase.

The DCE expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and the government for bringing the project to the district as part of efforts to fulfil the promise of implementing the 24-hour economy policy.

Speaking as the special guest of honour, Nana Agyeman Badu Duah, Kunsuhene of the area, commended the government for the initiative and pledged the support of the traditional council towards its successful implementation.

He disclosed that the traditional authorities were prepared to make additional lands available for future development projects and urged young people who secure jobs on the project to work diligently to ensure its success.

Some NDC executives and residents who attended the ceremony also expressed appreciation to President Mahama for fulfilling what they described as a major campaign promise.

They expressed confidence that the market would stimulate economic activities, attract investment and accelerate development in Ahafo Ano South West and neighbouring communities.