By Emmanuella Owusu, GNA
Ashaiman, Feb. 23, GNA – The Ashaiman Municipal Assembly (ASHMA) has announced plans to redevelop the Ashaiman Main Market into an ultra-modern 24-Hour Economy hub.
The hub is expected to improve trading conditions and boost economic activity in the municipality.
Mr Freeman Tsekpo, the Ashaiman Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), made the announcement at the unveiling of a redevelopment roadmap for the market.
“We do not want a market that looks like the old one, where those selling fish, pepper, and vegetables have no proper place,” Mr Tsekpo stated.
The event was attended by members of the Ashaiman Divisional Council, led by Nii Annang Adjor Amui III, the Chief of Ashaiman, market women, and local government officials.
Addressing concerns about congestion and roadside trading, Mr Tsekpo acknowledged the current chaotic conditions and outlined plans for a redesigned market layout featuring an open-space and shed system.
He explained that following consultations with local and regional authorities, the Assembly had agreed to increase the number of sheds where space permits to ensure inclusivity.
The redevelopment plan, he said, was specifically designed to provide traders currently operating along roadsides with dedicated and dignified trading spaces within the new market structure.
Mr Tsekpo disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama had directed that the project be completed within 15 to 18 months, with the goal of commissioning it before the 2028 general elections.
He contrasted the proposed timeline with past public infrastructure projects that stalled for years, leading to a waste of public resources.
The MCE assured traders that the project was government-funded and not a private investment venture, hence space when the project were completed would be affordable.
“The money for this project is not coming from a private investor who will demand GH¢50,000 for a stall. It is a government-funded initiative,” he said, assuring traders of fair pricing arrangements.
He noted that Ashaiman is a major trading town and that commercial activities could not be suspended during construction.
To ensure continuity of business, he proposed a phased redevelopment approach where sections of the market would be developed while trading continues in other sections.
He also revealed that land owned by the African Advance family had been made available to temporarily accommodate traders during the construction phase.
The MCE expressed confidence that through partnership and unity, the municipality would successfully implement a 24-hour economy model capable of sustaining economic activity day and night.
Nii Amui III, the Chief of Ashaiman, urged market women and residents to fully support the municipal assembly to ensure the successful execution of the project.
He rallied cooperation from stakeholders to minimise implementation challenges.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Benjamin Mensah