The Ghanaian government has announced that construction on Phase Two of the Kejetia Market project in Kumasi is set to resume after a two-year standstill. Local Government Minister Mahama Ayariga revealed that negotiations with the contractor have been concluded, paving the way for work crews to return to the site. The project had reached 60% completion before construction halted two years ago.
According to Minister Ayariga, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson has approved the resumption of work on Phase Two. The Finance Ministry has also authorised using proceeds from the completed Phase One to help mobilise the same contractor for Phase Three. Pricing and financing details for Phase Three remain under discussion. Phase One of the Kejetia Market redevelopment, one of West Africa's largest market facilities, was completed previously.
The Kejetia Market project is a significant commercial hub for thousands of traders in Kumasi. The project's delays have been attributed to financing and execution challenges. With the resumption of work on Phase Two, the government aims to complete the project and provide a modern market facility for traders. Minister Ayariga expressed optimism that the contractor's return to the site would facilitate the project's timely completion.
Minister Ayariga also disclosed that he intends to continue talks with the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, and Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to determine how Phase Three of the project will be delivered. The contractor returning to the site will also present a development plan for Phase Three. These discussions are crucial to ensuring the project's successful completion.
The update on the Kejetia Market project was announced during a press conference on government accountability matters. Other issues addressed included the reclaiming of the National Cathedral site, a proposed GH₵50 fortnightly waste charge for households, and a GH₵3,000 chiefs' allowance. The government also plans to establish a Local Government TV channel.
Minister Ayariga clarified that the government's flagship 24-hour economy drive, now redesignated as the District Economy Markets programme, is broader than market construction alone. The initiative involves splitting projects into two phases, with the first phase delivering market stores, sheds, and basic commercial space, and the second phase adding amenities such as police and fire posts within the facilities.
With contractors expected to return to the Kejetia site shortly, the government is optimistic that the project will be completed to provide a modern market facility for traders in Kumasi. The project's successful completion is expected to boost economic activity in the region and improve trading conditions for thousands of traders.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government has reached a deal to restart construction on the stalled Phase Two of Kejetia Market in Kumasi.
- The project had reached 60% completion before construction halted two years ago.
- The government's flagship 24-hour economy drive has been redesignated as the District Economy Markets programme.
