The Combined Kumasi Central Market Union has appealed to Brazilian contractor Contracta Company to reverse plans to shut down its Kumasi office, citing fears that the move could stall the Kejetia Market Phase 2 project indefinitely.Contracta earlier informed stakeholders that it had laid off 150 workers as a cost-cutting measure, saying the staff had become technically redundant due to funding delays.
The company said prolonged non-payment by government has financial implications, making its decision to vacate the site prudent.
The union warned that Contracta’s exit would trigger fear and uncertainty among thousands of traders who vacated their trading spaces for the project. It said the contractor has maintained consistent communication and shown commitment despite the setbacks.
Secretary to the union, Emelia Kwofie, said traders relocated to Kumasi Race Course are already struggling during the rainy season because no proper market structures were put in place before the move.
Poor conditions at the temporary site are affecting sales and livelihoods.
The union has assured Contracta it will mount pressure on relevant authorities to release funds for the project’s completion. Traders argue that abandoning the site now would waste years of sacrifice and delay the modernization of Kumasi’s central trading hub.
Kejetia Market Phase 2 is part of a major government infrastructure project aimed at easing congestion and boosting commerce in the Ashanti Region. Phase 1 was completed and commissioned in 2019.Contracta Company and the Ministry of Finance have not yet issued fresh comments on the funding status.