John-Peter Amewu, the Member of Parliament for Hohoe and Railway Development Minister, announced the opening of the new Hohoe Central Market, which is set to introduce night trading for the first time in the Volta Region. During the commissioning ceremony, Mr. Amewu indicated that this initiative would not only facilitate longer trading hours but would also enhance the vibrancy of commercial activities in the area. The government plans to install lighting in all stores and sheds, ensuring a safe and conducive environment for night trade. Mr. Amewu expressed confidence in the importance of this market for the local economy and emphasized that his government has made significant investments in the constituency, which will continue.
Mr. Amewu encouraged local traders to take responsibility for the upkeep of the market, which is crucial for extending its longevity. He urged the revenue mobilization taskforce of the local assembly to demonstrate accountability to support ongoing development efforts. The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to completing existing projects while also initiating new developments in the constituency, indicating a forward-thinking approach to enhancing community infrastructure. He also stressed the need for fair compensation to be provided to landowners and traditional authorities, recognizing their essential roles in the community.
Francis Fiakpui, the Hohoe Municipal Chief Executive, spoke about the market’s significance as a dynamic space for local vendors to display their goods and services. He noted that such opportunities would not only stimulate economic growth within Hohoe but also promote trade relations on a wider scale. The new market features 106 lockable stores, 146 sheds, as well as essential services such as warehouses, a crèche, police, health, and fire posts, all designed to support the operations of local businesses and enhance the safety and convenience for vendors and shoppers alike.
Furthermore, Mr. Fiakpui highlighted that the market project was funded by the World Bank through the Ghana Secondary Cities Support Programme (GSCSP), demonstrating a significant partnership between the local government and international development organizations. He mentioned that a new Public Employment Centre, also funded by the World Bank, would play a crucial role in bridging job seekers with potential employers while overseeing employment-related issues in the region. This focus on employment underscores the government’s attempt to address job scarcity and improve the livelihoods of residents in Hohoe.
In addition to the market, Mr. Fiakpui affirmed that the assembly is committed to completing additional projects under the GSCSP and encouraged community members to pay their market tolls consistently. These revenues are essential for maintaining the market and providing basic amenities to the populace. The emphasis on regular revenue collection highlights the importance of sustainable development practices within the local government framework, ensuring that ongoing services are available to meet the needs of the community.
The realization of the new market and associated developments received praise from local leaders, including Togbega Gabusu VII, the Paramount Chief of Gbi Traditional Area, who commended the government and Mr. Amewu for their development initiatives. Additionally, Madam Doris Amu, the Queen of the Hohoe Market Women Association, expressed her gratitude on behalf of the market stakeholders, affirming their commitment to maintaining the market’s facilities. The ceremony also included the inauguration of new garages at Gbi Godenu and the Volta Regional Public Employment Centre, signifying a broader commitment to enhance infrastructure and employability within the region. Overall, these efforts reflect a collaborative approach to fostering growth and address the needs of local communities in Hohoe.
