Ashanti Region: Traders at Kwaso refuse to occupy completed market

A market built to enhance economic activities in Kwaso, Ejisu Municipality of the Ashanti Region, remains unoccupied four years after its construction.

Despite its GHC890,000 cost, traders continue operating by the roadside, citing better customer access.

“Those by the roadside attract all the customers, so we joined them,” explained Juliet Nsiah, a trader, who suggested enforcing rules to relocate all traders into the market.

The issue was highlighted during a visit by the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC), which oversees petroleum-funded projects.

Ransford Tetteh, a PIAC member, expressed concern over the wasted investment, questioning its value for money.

Municipal authorities pledged action, including reallocating unused spaces to willing traders.

PIAC also flagged the exclusion of local authorities in managing projects, calling for their involvement to ensure oversight and accountability.