The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has assured Ghanaians of government’s firm commitment to complete the stalled Kumasi Central Market Kejetia Phase II and Takoradi Market Circle Redevelopment Project.
Addressing a press conference, the Minister described the two projects as critical national investments designed to transform urban commerce, improve livelihoods, and promote inclusive economic growth. He noted that the markets serve as major commercial hubs supporting thousands of traders, artisans, transport operators, and small-scale businesses.
Hon. Ibrahim explained that despite significant progress, both projects suffered delays due to non-payment of Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) and the subsequent demobilisation of contractors in 2024 under the previous administration. He added that the debt restructuring programme at the time led to the accumulation of substantial suspension claims, leaving key components of the projects incomplete.
According to the Minister, the setbacks have resulted in congestion, unsafe trading conditions, loss of income for traders, and underutilization of public investments, while also slowing economic activity in Kumasi and Takoradi.
Providing background, he said Phase I of the Kumasi Central Market, initiated in 2014 under former President John Dramani Mahama, was successfully completed and is currently operational. This success informed the expansion into Phase II and the Takoradi Market redevelopment.
On the financial status of the Kejetia Phase II project, the Minister revealed that the original contract sum of €248 million has risen to over €305 million due to suspension-related claims. At the time work was halted, the project was 58.22% complete, with significant progress made in engineering and procurement but lagging construction works.
For the Takoradi Market project, valued at €48 million, overall progress stood at 81.62% before suspension, with an outstanding balance of over €6 million yet to be paid to the contractor.
Despite the challenges, Hon. Ibrahim stressed that government remains resolute in completing both projects, citing their importance to economic development, job creation, and the government’s proposed 24-hour economy agenda.
He outlined measures being taken, including securing financing, re-engaging contractors, strengthening project monitoring, and working closely with trader associations and local authorities to ensure smooth execution.
“We want to assure traders and the general public that government is prioritising these projects and working assiduously to bring them to completion within the shortest possible time,” he said.
According to him, completing these projects is not an option—it is a necessity. It is about protecting public investment, restoring economic vitality, and improving the quality of life of our people
