The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atwima Nwabiagya North in the Ashanti Region, Mr. Mba Zakaria, has officially cut the sod for the construction of a modern 24-hour economy market at Asuofua.
Speaking at the colourful ceremony held yesterday, the DCE explained that the project forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s vision to promote continuous economic activity and improve the livelihoods of traders and business operators across the country.
According to Mr. Zakaria, the initiative is aimed at creating a vibrant commercial environment where market women and men can trade around the clock to ease the financial and economic burdens facing many Ghanaians.
He stressed that successive National Democratic Congress (NDC) governments have consistently invested in markets and other infrastructural projects to improve local economies and ensure equitable distribution of national development regardless of political affiliation.
“The NDC government remains committed to sharing the national cake fairly among all Ghanaians irrespective of their political background,” he stated.
Mr. Zakaria further urged the contractor handling the project to prioritize the employment of local youth with entrepreneurial and technical skills during the construction phase.
Giving details of the project, the Project Manager, Engineer Daniel Yeboah, disclosed that the modern market facility would include a Police Post, Fire Service Post, Day Care Centre, Pharmacy Shop, Clinic, Women’s Development Bank, Warehouse, toilet facilities, meat shop, cold stores, restaurants, food court, supermarket, guest rooms, and offices for market officials.
He added that the project would also provide 300 lockable and unlockable shops to support commercial activities in the area. The project is being funded by the Government of Ghana under the 24-hour economy initiative.
Nana Afrane Boateng II, Adiembra Dikro, commended President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC government for their commitment to developmental projects aimed at improving the living standards of the people.
He expressed optimism that the construction of the market would boost economic activities, create jobs, and transform Asuofua into a major commercial hub within the Ashanti Region.
