Grace Agyemang Asamoah breaking ground at the sod cutting ceremony
The Atwima Kwanwoma District is set for a major economic transformation following the sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a modern 24-Hour Economy market at Twedie.
The District Chief Executive (DCE), Grace Agyemang Asamoah, who performed the ceremony on Monday, described the project as a game-changer that would boost trade, create jobs and position Twedie as one of the leading commercial centres in the Ashanti Region.
According to her, the market forms part of government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy policy aimed at promoting continuous economic activity, increasing productivity and creating sustainable employment opportunities for the people.
She noted that the project marks the beginning of a new chapter in the district’s development agenda and would significantly improve the livelihoods of traders, farmers, artisans and transport operators.
“Today, we are not merely cutting sod for a construction project; we are laying the foundation for economic transformation, hope and prosperity for the people of Atwima Kwanwoma,” she stated.
Mrs. Agyemang Asamoah explained that unlike traditional markets that cease operations after sunset, the new facility would provide opportunities for round-the-clock business activities, enabling traders to increase sales and incomes while creating more jobs for the youth.
She disclosed that the modern market would comprise 132 sheds and open pavement trading spaces, 132 lockable shops, 160 open trading areas, 10 warehouses, a lorry terminal, a dedicated truck park, 10 meat shops and a cold store facility.
Other facilities include a food court, restaurant, livestock trading area, Women’s Bank, shopping mall, barbering shops, six-bed hostel, police post, fire post, clinic, pharmacy, Environmental Health Office, Information Centre and a Market Manager’s Office.
The project will also provide 24 shower facilities, 24 water closets, modern drainage systems, refuse collection points and disability-friendly infrastructure to ensure safety, accessibility and improved sanitation.
The DCE said the facility would create direct and indirect employment opportunities, boost local commerce and entrepreneurship, increase the Assembly’s internally generated revenue, as well as support agribusiness and agro-processing activities within the district.
She further indicated that farmers in the district and adjoining communities would benefit immensely from the market, as it would provide a ready outlet for agricultural produce and help reduce post-harvest losses.
Mrs. Agyemang Asamoah appealed to the contractor to ensure quality work and complete the project within schedule, while urging residents to support and protect the facility during and after construction.
She expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and the government for bringing the project to the district, and also thanked the Ashanti Regional Minister, Assembly Members, departmental heads and other stakeholders for their contributions towards the initiative.
In a rare bipartisan gesture, the DCE commended the Member of Parliament for Atwima Kwanwoma for his commitment to the district’s development, despite belonging to a different political party.
She also lauded the traditional authorities, particularly the Chief of Toase, for releasing the land for the project and supporting the Assembly’s development efforts.
When completed, the market is expected to become a major commercial hub serving traders and businesses within Atwima Kwanwoma and neighbouring districts.
FROM David Afum, Twedie