Mahama Ayariga inspects Tamale markets as trafers seek completion of Aboabo market

Mahama Ayariga, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, recently toured markets in Tamale to evaluate redevelopment works and consult with traders regarding the challenges affecting their businesses. Traders at the Aboabo Market pleaded with the government to complete the unfinished facility, providing them with an alternative trading space during construction.

The unfinished Aboabo Market, initially constructed during the regime of General Ignatius Kutu Acheampong, remains a long-standing issue in Tamale. Despite numerous assurances from successive governments, the facility has yet to fulfill its intended purpose.

Ayariga toured the Aboabo Market and the Tamale Central Old Market, engaging with traders and assessing their concerns about market infrastructure and redevelopment. Mohammed Bashiru, the Secretary of the Aboabo Super Market, urged the government to arrange an alternative trading location for traders before construction resumes, ensuring they can continue operating and protect their incomes.

Bashiru also appealed for government intervention to address the issue of unsold grains remaining in warehouses since last year due to low market prices.

The Minister for Local Government responded to the concerns, stating that the government is taking steps to revive Ghana's poultry industry, which is expected to create demand for grains used in animal feed and ease the problem of accumulated stocks. Ayariga urged traders to remain patient as the government works towards addressing the difficulties in the grain market.

Traders emphasized the importance of completing the Aboabo Market, along with providing temporary trading spaces and measures to tackle the grain stock glut, to ease their challenges and enhance commercial activities in Tamale.