Construction work on the second phase of the Kumasi Central Market Redevelopment project will resume in October 2026. This significant infrastructure project, valued at 248 million euros, had been stalled for several years. Funding is now secured for its completion, addressing long-standing concerns.
Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori Agyeman Boadi confirmed the restart during a stakeholder meeting in Kumasi. He stated that the government successfully negotiated with contractors and consultants to resume work. The mayor emphasized the project's importance, noting that it is a priority for the President and the government.
The Kumasi Central Market Redevelopment project is a crucial economic initiative for the Ashanti Region. Its completion will significantly enhance trading infrastructure and capacity in Ghana's second-largest city. The project's first phase, commissioned in 2018, has already generated GHS 89 million in revenue for the assembly. This revenue generation model was intended to support the subsequent phases.
Consultant Tony Yeboah of Avangarde Design Services provided an update on the project's progress. He reported that the overall project work stands at 68 per cent complete. Procurement is 84 per cent done, while engineering works are 99 per cent finished. Construction works for Phase 2 are currently 49 per cent complete. Only 171 million euros of the total funds have been disbursed so far.
The prolonged delay in Phase 2's construction has caused considerable frustration among local traders and market stakeholders. Many have expressed displeasure over the abandonment and the economic dilemma it created. The market is a vital hub for commerce, and its expansion is expected to alleviate congestion and boost economic activity.
The second phase will introduce substantial modern trading and support facilities. Plans include over 3,760 counter shops and more than 6,000 lockable shops. A transport terminal capable of accommodating 600 vehicles will also be part of the new development. This expansion aims to modernize the trading environment and improve logistics for businesses.
The original contract for the 248 million euro project was signed in December 2018. It had an initial expected completion timeline of 48 months. The mayor also debunked rumors about the distribution of stalls in the yet-to-be-completed market. He warned traders against paying money to individuals or entities falsely claiming to collect market premiums on behalf of the assembly. This warning aims to protect traders from potential fraud.
The resumption of work is a welcome development for the people of Kumasi. The early completion of the market project is eagerly awaited to ease congestion in the regional capital's major trading centre. This project represents a significant investment in urban infrastructure and local economic development. Its successful completion will provide modern facilities for thousands of traders and improve the overall market experience for consumers.