The District Chief Executive for Atwima Kwanwoma, Hon. Grace Agyemang Asamoah, has emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in accelerating development, noting that collaboration between government and private individuals remains essential in addressing infrastructure challenges and improving livelihoods.
She made the remarks at the commissioning of the Apaaso Community Market in the Ashanti Region, describing the facility as a significant boost to local economic activity. According to the DCE, the market will provide a conducive environment for traders, particularly market women and small-scale business operators, while enhancing access to goods and services for residents.
Hon. Asamoah commended the Chief Executive Officer of the project, Mr. Patrick Owusu, popularly known as Pekus, for his foresight and commitment to community development. She noted that such private sector initiatives complement government efforts in job creation and help accelerate development at the grassroots level. She further urged traders and market leaders to prioritise cleanliness, proper maintenance, and effective management of the facility to ensure its sustainability.
In his remarks, Mr. Owusu stated that the construction of the market forms part of his contribution to supporting government efforts aimed at creating jobs and reducing youth unemployment. He explained that the initiative is not only a business venture but also a strategic intervention to empower local traders and stimulate economic activity within the community.
He appealed to traders and residents to adopt a strong maintenance culture, stressing that the long-term success of the facility depends on how well it is managed and preserved. He expressed optimism that the market would serve as a catalyst for economic growth and significantly improve livelihoods in the Apaaso community.
Meanwhile, the Assembly Member for the Asaago-Apaaso Electoral Area, Hon. Nelson Boakye Yiadom, called on residents to fully patronise the market to justify the investment made. While commending the initiative, he raised concerns about the poor state of roads and rising insecurity in the area, urging government to take urgent steps to address these challenges.
The commissioning of the Apaaso Community Market marks a major milestone in promoting local economic development in the Atwima Kwanwoma District and highlights the critical role of public-private collaboration in driving sustainable growth.
