The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Achiase in the Eastern Region, Samuel Owusu Brako, has expressed confidence that the government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy Market project will transform the district into a thriving commercial hub, create employment opportunities and boost local economic development.
According to him, the project forms part of his vision to make Achiase economically vibrant by creating a ready market for farmers and traders, while reducing the need for residents to travel to neighbouring towns to conduct business.
Mr. Brako made the remarks after officially cutting the sod for the construction of the 24-Hour Economy Market in Achiase.
He explained that the district has struggled to generate substantial Internally Generated Funds (IGF) due to the absence of a major market, a situation he believes will change once the project is completed.
“The district currently falls short in terms of Internally Generated Funds because we do not have a major market. This project will significantly improve our revenue base and provide the Assembly with more resources to undertake other development projects,” he said.
The DCE noted that his administration is determined to transform Achiase into a municipality comparable to major commercial centres such as Akyem Oda.
“I want to see Achiase develop like Akyem Oda and other neighbouring towns. My vision is to create a district with a vibrant local economy that provides opportunities for our people,” he stated.
He added that bringing the 24-Hour Economy Market to Achiase demonstrates the Assembly’s commitment to job creation and economic growth.
Mr. Brako disclosed that Achiase is among the first districts in the Eastern Region to commence construction of the government’s flagship market project under the 24-Hour Economy initiative.
He appealed to residents to support the contractor by maintaining peace and cooperating throughout the construction period to ensure the successful completion of the project.
The DCE revealed that although the project is expected to be completed within three years, the contractor has assured the Assembly that it could be delivered much earlier.
“He has assured me that within one and a half to two years the project will be completed and handed over to the Assembly,” he said.
Mr. Brako outlined several facilities to be incorporated into the modern market, including more than 150 shops and stalls, warehouses, a clinic, a school, a police station and five banking halls.
He added that one of the financial institutions expected to operate at the market is the proposed Women’s Development Bank, an initiative aimed at improving women’s access to financial support and business opportunities.
According to him, the completion of the market will attract traders from Accra, Kumasi, Akyem Oda and several other parts of the country.
“I am confident that traders from Accra, Kumasi, Akyem Oda and other places will come here to rent shops and conduct business. Their presence will increase demand for housing, create employment for our people and stimulate economic activities across the district,” he said.
Beyond the market itself, the DCE disclosed that the Assembly is also constructing a modern lorry terminal as part of the project to improve transportation within the district.
He explained that commercial drivers who currently operate along the principal streets would be relocated to the new terminal to improve traffic flow and enhance safety in the township.
Mr. Brako further indicated that the new transport terminal would spare residents the inconvenience of travelling to Akyem Oda and other nearby towns before boarding vehicles to destinations such as Koforidua, Asamankese and Accra.
He expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for approving the construction of the 24-Hour Economy Market in Achiase, describing the project as a major investment that will transform the district’s economy for generations to come.
By 1960news.com
