By Muyid Deen Suleman, GNA
Kumasi, May 12, GNA – Residents of Aboabo in the Asawase Constituency have welcomed a planned demolition of the Aboabo Market, after years of neglect and deterioration to make way for the proposed 24-Hour model market.
The market is expected to be demolished between 13th and 14th May 2026, to pave the way for the 24-Hour Economy model market, a flagship programme of the ruling Nation Democratic Congress (NDC).
The 24-Hour Economy initiative seeks to reposition the nation into a 24/7, high-productivity, export-driven economy by the end of 2026.
Residents described the development as a welcome relief, citing persistent structural decay, inadequate sanitation, and fire risks as major concerns that have made redevelopment necessary for improved modernisation.
The Ghana News Agency (GNA) visited the market on Tuesday morning to engage traders and businesses on their sentiments regarding the redevelopment.
Mallam Zakari, a tailor, told the GNA that modernising the market would enhance the competitiveness of traditional commerce, thereby attract more customers and stimulate local economic activity.
He added that redeveloping the facility would address safety concerns, poor sanitation, and inadequate drainage, to create a cleaner and safer environment with appropriate amenities.
Hajia Humu Ibrahim, a vendor, also told the GNA that redevelopment would enhance the overall appearance of the area, making it more attractive while reducing the dangers associated with dilapidated structures.
However, she lamented the uncertainty surrounding the allocation of stores after completion.
She said her experience at the Asawase Market where most original owners were not given back their sheds and stores were unacceptable.
She therefore urged the authorities to ensure that every shed or store owner receives their allocated space after the project is completed.
For its part, the Asawase Municipal Assembly said it had held extensive engagements with stakeholders and had already outlined modalities for the market upon completion.
The Assembly noted that it was aware of complaints regarding store allocation and assured residents that each original occupant would receive a store.
The project, it said, wass being funded by the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF), and the contract was awarded to OFFKOO Building and Construction Works Ltd, a local construction firm.
All phases of the project, according to the Assembly, are expected to be completed by the end of 2028.
The Assembly therefore appealed to residents to cooperate as the demolition and redevelopment commenced.
Meanwhile, as of today, May 12, 2026, occupants of the market were seen evacuating their belongings as a sign of compliance ahead of the demolition.
GNA
Reporter: Muyid Deen Suleman
Edited by Yussif Ibrahim/Kenneth Odeng Adade