The Deputy Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Gomoa West in the Central Region, Richard Gyan-Mensah, has issued a stern warning to residents and workers within the district against stealing construction materials meant for the government’s 24-hour economy market project at Apam Junction.
According to the MP, the theft of construction materials has become one of the major setbacks affecting the smooth execution and timely completion of development projects across the country.
He observed that in many instances, unscrupulous individuals and even some workers have engaged in the theft of items including cement, iron rods, wood, paint, and other building materials for personal gain, thereby causing delays and increasing project costs for contractors.
Hon. Gyan-Mensah cautioned that anyone found stealing materials from the Apam Junction market project site would be made to face the full rigours of the law.
“We will not tolerate any act that undermines this important project. Those who engage in stealing contractors’ materials should be prepared to face legal consequences,” he warned.
The Deputy Minister therefore appealed to community members to support contractors and security agencies in protecting the project to ensure its successful completion.
He made the remarks during the sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a modern 24-hour market complex at Apam Junction in the Gomoa West District of the Central Region.
Beyond the market project, Hon. Richard Gyan-Mensah announced government plans to improve electricity supply within the district to support economic growth and improve living conditions.
He revealed that arrangements are underway to establish a dedicated electricity substation to address the persistent low-voltage challenges confronting households and businesses in the area.
According to him, about 66 communities within the district are expected to benefit from ongoing electricity extension projects aimed at expanding access to reliable and stable power supply.
The MP explained that Gomoa West currently depends heavily on the Winneba Substation for electricity distribution.
However, increasing population growth and rising demand for electricity have overstretched the facility, resulting in frequent power fluctuations and outages.
He assured residents that government remains committed to resolving the district’s power challenges to enhance economic activities and improve livelihoods.
The District Chief Executive for Gomoa West, Hon. Mohammed Kassim, also appealed to the contractor executing the market project to prioritise the employment of local youth during the construction phase.
According to him, engaging the youth in the project would not only create jobs but also promote a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members.
Hon. Kassim further advised the youth to stay away from criminal activities, especially the theft of construction materials, and rather support efforts aimed at ensuring the successful completion of the market complex.
Meanwhile, the Paramount Chief of the Gomoa Ajumako Traditional Area, Obrempong Nyamful Krampa XI, commended the government for extending the 24-hour economy market initiative to the three Gomoa districts.
The traditional ruler described the initiative as a transformative intervention that would boost local trade, stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and improve the livelihoods of residents.
He expressed confidence that once completed, the market complex would become a major commercial hub for traders and businesses within the area and beyond.
The 24-hour market project forms part of the government’s broader agenda to promote round-the-clock economic activities, increase productivity, and create sustainable employment opportunities across the country.
Story by Yaw Boagyan
