Construction on Kejetia Central Market Phase II to Resume, Traders Ordered to Vacate by 5 August
Construction works on phase two of the Kejetia Central Market Redevelopment Project are set to resume later this month, following government assurances of timely fund disbursement. The construction firm, Contracta, is prepared to return to the site and restart full operations.
The project has been on hold for over a year since the construction firm left the site and terminated workers due to delayed funding. The delay has been attributed to the government’s domestic debt restructuring program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which impacted the release of funds.
The €248 million project, which began in May 2019, was initially slated for completion within 48 months. However, various setbacks have delayed its progress. The project site has become overgrown with weeds and a haven for reptiles, leaving traders in temporary, inadequate shelters exposed to the elements.
The project is expected to feature 6,500 leasable commercial spaces, 5,400 closed stores, 800 kiosks, 50 restaurants, and additional facilities including a fire station, police station, and a mini-theatre. Once completed, the market will be a world-class facility with modern pavements that can prevent fire outbreaks.
The Kumasi Mayor, Samuel Pyne, has confirmed that the Finance Minister has provided an assurance letter for prompt payment, and the company has all the necessary materials.
During a tour with the Security Taskforce around the Kejetia-Central Market, it was highlighted that there is an urgent need to relocate traders to facilitate the continuation of construction work. The Kumasi authorities are expected to deploy a task force to ensure compliance.
Despite the resumption of construction, the Kumasi Mayor acknowledged that the project is unlikely to be finished before the December election due to the 13-month delay.
Traders affected by the delay have protested, threatening to vote against the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming 2024 elections.
