Asiakwa Traders Appeal for Modern Market as Congestion, Dilapidated Structure Bite Hard

Traders at Asiakwa in the Abuakwa South Municipality are appealing to government, civil society organizations, NGOs, and philanthropists for support to build a modern, spacious market centre to ease congestion and improve trading conditions.

The traders say the current market structure is dilapidated and leaking, which affects sales and exposes them and their goods to the weather.

They argue that the poor state of the facility also forces some of them onto the road, creating conflict with drivers.

Speaking to _Oyerepa TV/FM_ Correspondent George Botha, the traders said if constructing a new market will take time, authorities should renovate the existing one to make it more conducive for business.

According to them, the chiefs and elders of Asiakwa asked them to identify land for a new market, but they cannot do so because all lands belong to the traditional authority.

“We are pleading with government and well-meaning individuals to come to our aid. The market we have now is old and leaking. If getting a new place is hard, then they should renovate this one for us,” one trader stated.

Daasebre Kyeame Ansah, speaking on the issue, confirmed that congestion at the current market is a major problem.

He said the traditional authority, in collaboration with the Municipal Assembly led by Hon. Addo Aikins Jnr, has initiated plans to build an ultra-modern market for the community soon.

He added that while the new market is being planned, renovation work is ongoing at the old market.

Paving blocks are about 60% complete, and the council is working with individuals to make the foodstuff section more hygienic.

Daasebre Kyeame Ansah also appealed to CSOs, NGOs, and philanthropists to support the project to ensure traders get a safe and organized market space.

Traders say a modern market centre will not only improve their livelihoods but also boost the local economy by attracting more customers to Asiakwa.