The Ketu North Municipal Assembly has taken a significant step toward the development of the proposed ECOWAS Market Project at Penyi–Akanu, a transformative initiative expected to enhance cross-border trade and stimulate economic growth in the municipality and beyond.
The market, earmarked for a 50.2-acre parcel of land near the Akanu border, is envisioned as a modern commercial hub that will serve traders from Ghana and neighbouring West African countries.
The facility will include designated parking spaces, sleeping quarters for traders, washrooms, toilet facilities, a police post, and a fire station, all designed to ensure safety, convenience, and a conducive trading environment.
The initiative is being pursued under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement between the Assembly and Modern Construction Company, an Accra-based firm currently finalizing architectural designs and project documentation.
To accelerate processes toward construction, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Rev. Martin Amenaki, on Thursday convened a stakeholder engagement with landowners and other relevant partners to discuss land acquisition modalities and resolve outstanding compensation concerns.
The meeting also provided an avenue to update stakeholders on progress made so far while strengthening collaborative efforts for the next phase of work.
Rev. Amenaki described the discussions as constructive and reaffirmed the collective commitment to ensuring that the project is delivered successfully and without delay.
“This market will not only transform trading activities in our municipality but will position Penyi–Akanu as a leading commercial gateway within the West African sub-region,” he noted.
“We are determined to see this project through, as it will create jobs, empower women and youth engaged in trade, and boost both local and regional economic activity.”
The Assembly remains optimistic that, upon completion of all preparatory requirements, construction will commence.
The ECOWAS Market Project forms part of broader development efforts to harness the municipality’s strategic position as a border enclave to enhance integration and trade within the sub-region.