By Michael Pepsin Avorgah
Ho, May 13, GNA – Mr Bright Solomon K. Kumordzie, Ghana’s Deputy High Commissioner to Togo, has urged contractors working on the proposed 24-hour economy market at Glidzi Junction in the Ketu South Municipality to prioritise the engagement of local artisans and labourers.
He said involving both skilled and unskilled local labour would create employment opportunities and foster a sense of ownership among residents, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability of the project.
Mr Kumordzie made the call during the official handing over of land for the construction of the market in the Volta Region.
According to him, the Government’s broader agenda under the 24-hour economy policy is to stimulate job creation and enhance economic participation at all levels, noting that the inclusion of local people in such flagship projects remains crucial to achieving that objective.
“Engaging local artisans and labourers will create direct and indirect jobs and help the people see the project as their own,” he said.
He emphasised that empowering local workers through such initiatives would improve livelihoods and build capacity within the community, particularly among the youth.
The handing-over ceremony, led by the Ketu South Municipal Assembly in collaboration with traditional authorities from Klikor and Somé, marked the beginning of the implementation phase of the project.
Mr Nicholas Kwabla Worclachie, Municipal Chief Executive for Ketu South, described the project site as strategically located along the Aflao–Accra Highway, making it accessible and suitable for large-scale commercial activities.
He reiterated that upon completion, the market would enhance trade, support cross-border commerce, and expand economic opportunities within the municipality and its adjoining areas.
Mr Worclachie noted that preparatory works, including the construction of access roads linking the market to surrounding communities, had already commenced to facilitate smooth transportation.
He dismissed concerns that the facility would undermine the existing Agbozume market, explaining that it would rather complement existing trading centres and improve overall market infrastructure in the area.
The MCE appealed to residents and traditional leaders to support the project and maintain a peaceful environment to ensure its smooth execution.
The 24-hour economy market project forms part of Government’s efforts to modernise trading systems, create jobs and promote continuous economic activity across the country.
Stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that the project would serve as a catalyst for local economic growth, particularly if local participation is prioritised.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah