The Ahafo Regional Minister, Mrs Charity Gardiner, has cut the sod for construction of a 24-hour market at Duayaw Nkwanta in the Tano North Municipality, marking the start of a project designed to stimulate local commerce and create employment.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mrs Gardiner said the facility would generate job opportunities, enhance economic activity and ultimately improve livelihoods for residents. She thanked the Duayaw-Nkwanta Traditional Council for releasing the land and supporting the development.
The Tano North Municipal Chief Executive, Mr Pius Sampson Opoku, described the market as one of several government projects underway in the municipality. He also highlighted the establishment of a Fire Service Training School at Duayaw-Nkwanta, which he said had opened formal employment pathways for young people in the area.
The Municipal Development Planning Officer, Mr Samuel Essuman, outlined the market’s design, which includes a creche, clinic, restaurant, fire and police posts, a banking hall and standard washrooms. The integrated layout aims to serve both Traders and the wider community under one roof.
The contract has been awarded to Nielz Construction Limited. Project Manager Mr Emmanuel Addison Essuman said the work would be completed within 18 months, provided the contractor receives the necessary cooperation from stakeholders.
The project reflects a broader push to modernise market infrastructure across the region, combining commercial space with essential public services. Once operational, the facility is expected to reduce congestion at existing trading points and provide a safer, more organised environment for vendors and shoppers alike.
Local leaders have urged residents to support the construction phase by maintaining peace and protecting materials on site. The municipal assembly says it will monitor progress closely to ensure the timeline is met and quality standards are maintained.