AMA To Start Modern Market Project In July

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), through the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, would start the construction of 11 modern markets in Accra by July.

The World Bank sponsored project would cost 840 million dollars.

The markets would be located at Mallam, Mallam Atta, Makola, Tuesday, London, Salaga, Kantanmanto, Makola Anex, City Corner, and Rawlings Park while the Accra Community Centre would also be turned into a Conventional Centre to accommodate about 2,000 audiences at a time.

The project, which was designed as a major investment and economic empowerment for women and the youth of Accra, would be undertaken through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) on Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer basis.

Dr Alfred Oko Vanderpuije, the Accra Metropolitan Chief Executive, who made this known at a two-day sensitisation workshop of market queens, said a bidding process for the selection of a private entity to whom the contract would be awarded would be held in June, this year.

He said the architectural designs of the modern market facilities had been completed to fit the status of Accra being the Millennium City.

He said the facilities in all the markets would include water harvesting equipment, solar energy, improved sanitary condition, security of traders, offices and clinics, day-care centres, police and fire posts, banks, warehouses and temporal accommodation for visitors.

Dr Vanderpuije gave the assurance that the traders presently occupying spaces in the markets were going to be the first occupants when the facilities are completed.

He said the project would also create jobs for about 32,890 artisans in Accra and bring more revenue to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly.