A significant high-level meeting of key partners involved in President Mahama’s flagship Aflao Market project was convened this week, chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, to finalize critical preparatory commitments.
This crucial gathering signals the imminent commencement of the physical construction phase. The agenda focused on ensuring all foundational elements were firmly in place, successfully reviewing the project’s detailed designs, meticulously analyzing the comprehensive feasibility report, and addressing necessary diplomatic milestones. Most importantly, the meeting served to clearly delineate and firmly establish the responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in this major national development effort.
The Aflao Market project is not merely an upgrade; it is envisioned as a comprehensive development hub and a major investment in the region’s socio-economic infrastructure. The ambitious scope of the project extends far beyond traditional market stalls, incorporating a wide range of essential additional facilities. These amenities are set to include schools, administrative offices, a fire station, a clinic, warehouses, transport terminals, pharmacies, abattoirs, and recreation centres, transforming the area into a self-sustaining commercial and community center.
This extensive development is made possible by a recently secured US$30 million grant from China, underscoring strong international cooperation on the initiative.
The meeting saw the attendance of a wide range of distinguished and vital participants, highlighting the project’s broad significance and multi-sectoral support. Key figures present included Togbui Adzongaga Amenya Fiti V, the Paramount Chief of the Aflao Traditional Area, lending essential traditional backing; Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Ketu South MP and Minister for Tourism, Arts and Creative Arts; and Volta Regional Minister James Gunu, representing regional administration. Diplomatic relations were affirmed by the presence of Chinese Ambassador H.E. Tong Defa, alongside local government representation from Ketu South MCE Nicholas Kwabla Worlachie, and the project’s dedicated team of architects and technical partners.
Concluding the successful session, the Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed profound appreciation for the exceptional team spirit and collaboration demonstrated by all partners. The comprehensive commitments finalized during this meeting represent the final administrative hurdle before mobilization.
With these vital preparatory steps now successfully concluded, the project is ready to move forward. President Mahama is therefore expected to cut the sod shortly, officially launching the beginning of the actual construction phase for the highly anticipated Aflao Market complex.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
