The Ashanti Regional branch of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has paid a courtesy call on the Mayor of Kumasi, Mr. Richard Kwasi Ofori Agyemang Boadi at his office.

Led by its Regional Chairman, Mr. Anthony Kwaku Oppong, the visit was to formally congratulate the Mayor on his appointment as Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and to discuss pressing issues affecting trade and commerce in the region.

Mr. Oppong underscored Kumasi’s strategic importance as a commercial hub in Ghana and appealed for the Mayor’s support in fostering a conducive environment for business growth.

He enumerated key concerns including the timely completion of Phase II of the Kejetia-Central Market Redevelopment Project, delays in completing the Krofrom Market, challenges with electricity meter installations, and the reconstruction of the fire-ravaged section of the Kejetia Market.

He further called for improvements to the road infrastructure at the Racecourse Market and requested the construction of a perimeter wall around the Abinkyi Market to enhance security and safety for traders.

In his response, Mr. Boadi expressed gratitude to GUTA for the visit and reaffirmed his commitment to support businesses across the metropolis.

He emphasized the critical role of trade in combating unemployment and reducing crime and assured the delegation that government funding would be secured to restart Phase II of the Kejetia Market project by the end of July 2025.

The project is expected to be completed within two years.

Regarding the fire-damaged section of the Kejetia Market, the Mayor indicated that it would be incorporated into the second phase of the redevelopment to prevent displacement of unaffected traders.

Addressing the concerns surrounding the Racecourse Market, he explained that due to the construction of the Suame Interchange lay-by, immediate infrastructural upgrades in that area would not be cost-effective.

On the Krofrom Market, he noted that discussions were ongoing with President John Dramani Mahama to prioritize its completion to ease congestion in Kumasi’s Central Business District.

The Mayor also announced the upcoming Kumasi Business Connect event, scheduled to take place from 7th to 9th November 2025 at the Lancaster Hotel.

The event aims to bring together stakeholders from various sectors, including real estate, tourism, agribusiness, creative industries, technology, and finance to explore investment opportunities and promote economic growth in the region.