A significant milestone in the development of Essumeja in the Bekwai Municipality was achieved when the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Issaka Salia Salifu, joined the Essumeja Traditional Council to commission a newly constructed 38-unit ultramodern market complex funded by Mrs. Mary Antwi, a distinguished native of the community.
The new market facility, which stands as a symbol of progress and community empowerment, was constructed to boost commercial activities and provide a conducive trading environment for local traders. The project, fully financed by Mrs. Mary Antwi, was dedicated to the memory of her late parents, Opanin Kwame Ntim and Obaapanin Adwoa Fordjour, in recognition of their lasting legacy and contribution to the community’s growth.
Speaking at the colourful commissioning ceremony, Mrs. Mary Antwi expressed profound appreciation to the Essumeja Traditional Council, the Bekwai Municipal Assembly, and all stakeholders who supported the realization of the project. She emphasized that the new market was her way of giving back to her roots and promoting economic empowerment, particularly among women and young entrepreneurs in the community.
According to her, the market complex would not only create direct and indirect job opportunities but would also enhance trading efficiency and attract more investors to Essumeja. She added that a clean, safe, and organized marketplace was crucial for sustainable local development and the overall wellbeing of residents.
Hon. Issaka Salia Salifu, the Bekwai Municipal Chief Executive, in his remarks, commended Mrs. Antwi for her remarkable philanthropic gesture and patriotic spirit in investing in the socioeconomic growth of Essumeja. He noted that such private sector-driven development initiatives complement government’s efforts in improving livelihoods and transforming local economies.
The MCE highlighted that under the visionary leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, the government is vigorously implementing the 24-hour economy initiative aimed at expanding business operations, boosting employment, and stimulating economic growth across all sectors. He explained that the Assembly is actively aligning its local development agenda with this policy by revamping existing markets, conducting feasibility studies for new projects, and supporting infrastructure that encourages round-the-clock economic activities within the municipality.
He further assured the Traditional Council and residents of Essumeja of the Assembly’s continuous collaboration in ensuring the proper maintenance of the new market and in providing the necessary amenities to sustain its operations.
The Paramount Chief of Essumeja, together with his elders, lauded Mrs. Antwi for her generosity and foresight, describing the market project as a lasting legacy that would transform the area’s commercial outlook. He encouraged other well-meaning citizens and natives in the diaspora to emulate her example by investing in community-oriented projects that align with the government’s development vision.
The commissioning ceremony drew hundreds of residents, traders, traditional leaders, and officials of the Bekwai Municipal Assembly. The joyous event was marked by cultural displays, traditional drumming, and dancing as the community celebrated yet another milestone in Essumeja’s development journey.
The newly inaugurated 38-unit market complex stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the people of Essumeja, reflecting the power of public-private collaboration in driving sustainable local development in the Bekwai Municipality.
