Eric Assibey, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Kwadaso, has cut the sod for a modern 24-hour economy market at the onion market, near the Sofoline lorry station. The project is a key component of the government's flagship 24-Hour Economy Policy, aimed at transforming the existing market into a commercial hub.
Market to Feature Modern Facilities
The project, which spans four acres, will provide traders with a safe, convenient, and well-organised marketplace. Mr Assibey explained that the market would feature a wide range of modern facilities, including lockable shops, market sheds, warehouses, offices, and a police post. Other amenities include a fire post, clinic, pharmacy, women's development bank, daycare centre, supermarket, restaurants, food court, meat shop, cold stores, guest rooms, livestock bay, public washrooms, shower facilities, waste management facilities, and open retail spaces.
Project to Create Employment Opportunities
The MCE stated that the project had been carefully designed to improve security, sanitation, public health, and access to essential services, while providing a conducive environment for business growth. Mr Assibey expressed confidence that the project would create both direct and indirect employment opportunities, expand commercial activities, and improve market access for farmers and other producers. He said the modern market would strengthen the local economy by improving the livelihoods of residents.
Project Execution and Timeline
The project will be executed by ECO-Planners and Engineering Consult, and is expected to be completed within 36 months. Mr Assibey expressed his confidence that with the timely release of funds and uninterrupted logistical support, construction could be completed within 24 months. The contractor, Mr Michael Amankwaah, assured the Assembly and residents that the company would execute the project with professionalism, diligence, and quality workmanship.
Ongoing Government Projects in the Municipality
Touching on other ongoing government projects in the municipality, Mr Assibey announced that a Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound at Nyankyerenease had been completed and is awaiting commissioning. He said another CHPS compound was under construction near the Atwima Takyiman school park, to improve healthcare delivery in the area. The MCE further disclosed that several mechanised boreholes had been completed across the municipality, while additional ones were under construction.
Residents' Cooperation Sought
Mr Assibey appealed to residents, especially traders operating at the market, to cooperate with the contractor and safeguard the project throughout the construction period to ensure its successful and timely completion. He urged the contractor to prioritise the employment of qualified residents, to ensure the direct benefit of the project to the local community.
The Municipal Chief Executive's visit to the site marks a significant step towards the completion of the project. As the construction of the modern market progresses, it will be interesting to see how the project benefits the local economy and improves the livelihoods of residents.
Source: Joy Online
