By Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
Asesewa, a historic market town with roots dating back to 1935, is poised for a major transformation with the construction of a modern market aimed at restoring its status as a key commercial hub.
Speaking to chiefs and residents at a sod-cutting ceremony as part of his Resetting Ghana tour of the Eastern Region, President John Mahama reflected on the town’s rich trading history, recalling how Asesewa market was once widely referenced, even in primary school textbooks, as a vibrant centre of commerce.
“Growing up, our school readers spoke about the Asesewa market and Mr. Danso, the lorry driver who transported traders to and from the market. It shows how significant this market once was,” he noted.
However, over the years, the market’s infrastructure has seen little development, leading to a decline in its prominence since its peak in the 1960s and 1970s.
President Mahama revealed that as part of a nationwide initiative, Asesewa is among several districts benefiting from the construction of modern markets designed to boost local economic activity.
The new facility will feature 100 lockable stores and 150 open stalls to accommodate different categories of traders. It will also include a police post with 24-hour security and a fire station to enhance safety.
To support traders, especially women; the market will have a daycare centre, a clinic with health professionals, a pharmacy, and a women’s bank to promote financial security and inclusion.
In addition, the project will provide 10 warehouses for storage, 36 washrooms equipped with showers and toilets, and a designated meat shop supported by two cold stores for preserving perishable goods.
Food vendors will benefit from a large restaurant and a 10-unit food court for local dishes such as waakye, kenkey, and banku.
A supermarket, or mini shopping mall, will also be part of the complex.
For traders traveling from distant areas, six guest rooms will be available for overnight stays. The market will further include a livestock section, a sanitation yard for proper waste management, and administrative offices to ensure efficient operations.
An open trading space will also be provided for those who prefer to sell in a more flexible, traditional setting.
Describing the project as “transformational,” President Mahama expressed confidence that it would restore Asesewa’s reputation as a thriving economic centre.
He also highlighted complementary infrastructure projects, including efforts to complete a long-delayed water supply system to serve Asesewa and surrounding communities.
“Water is life. We will ensure the completion of the water project so that Asesewa and nearby towns benefit,” he assured.
On road infrastructure, the President acknowledged the critical role of accessible transport networks in maximizing the market’s potential, pledging to prioritize feeder roads in the area under ongoing national road development programmes.
“Without good roads, a market cannot achieve its full potential. We will ensure Asesewa gets its fair share of road development,” he added.
The project is expected to significantly boost trade, improve livelihoods, and reposition Asesewa as a central marketplace in the region.
