Accra: The Tema West Municipal Assembly (TWMA) has commenced the construction of a modern 24-hour economy market at Community Two in the Tema West Municipality, with the aim of enhancing commercial activities and improving trading conditions.
According to Ghana News Agency, this initiative is part of the government's flagship 24-hour economy programme, which seeks to transform local commercial centres into vibrant business hubs, supporting economic activities around the clock. Mr James Enu, the Member of Parliament for Tema West, led the sod-cutting ceremony, emphasizing the necessity of redevelopment due to the deteriorated state of the existing market constructed in the 1960s, which no longer provides a safe environment for traders and customers.
Mr Enu highlighted that the new market complex will feature modern stalls, cold storage facilities, banking services, administrative offices, a health clinic, a police post, and a daycare centre to support traders, especially working mothers. He encouraged the contractor to hire artisans and skilled youth from the constituency to generate employment opportunities for residents during the construction phase.
The MP reassured market women that TWMA and his office would collaborate with market leaders to provide temporary trading spaces, minimizing disruptions during construction. He also appealed to traditional authorities, community leaders, and residents to support the project for its successful completion.
Mr Ludwig Teye Totimeh, the Tema West Municipal Chief Executive, described the project as a significant investment in the municipality's economic development, providing a secure, organized, and modern trading environment that stimulates business growth. He noted that the inclusion of a clinic, police post, and daycare centre underscores the government's commitment to improving the welfare of traders and their families.
Mr Totimeh assured traders of the assembly's close supervision to ensure quality work and adherence to specifications, urging the contractor to complete the project on schedule. He reiterated the call for residents and traders to cooperate with the construction team throughout the implementation period.
The MCE expressed gratitude to the Tema Traditional Council, market executives, and community members for their support and collaboration. The construction of the market is anticipated to expand commercial opportunities, improve productivity, and create sustainable employment, particularly for women and youth in the municipality.