Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Samuel Pyne, has disclosed that the government is set to release funds for the resumption of construction works on phase two of the Kejetia Market Redevelopment Project.

The project has stalled for more than a year after construction firm, Contracta, left the site and terminated appointments of workers over delayed release of funds for the project.

According to Mr Pyne, the construction company is ready to return to the site in August 2024 to commence full operations, following the government’s assurances to release funds promptly for the project's completion.

“We had a recommencement meeting last week Thursday 18 July 2024, in Kumasi. Since they left about 13 months ago, that’s a year and a month, there’s a need for them to re-engage workers. At the moment, they have all the materials for the shops ready. So, they are doing a re-assessment of the materials that they left on site to confirm if they are fit for purpose for the project because the Finance Minister has given them a letter, assurance letter and assurance of prompt payment,” he said.

The €248 million project which began in May 2019, was expected to be completed within 48 months but has suffered various setbacks, delaying its completion.

The government cited its domestic debt restructuring programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a factor for the prolonged resumption of the market project.

The project site has been covered in weeds and has become an abode for reptiles while its legitimate occupants are left at the mercy of the weather in their temporary deplorable shelter.

Traders affected by the project protested against the government, threatening to vote against the governing NPP in the 2024 election.

However, after a successful renegotiation with the IMF, funds have been released for the project to resume.

The completed project will house 6,500 leasable commercial spaces, 5,400 closed stores, 800 kiosks, 50 restaurants, and other ancillary facilities such as a fire service station, police station and a mini theatre.

Despite the announced resumption of work, Mr Pyne hinted that the project may not be completed before the December election.

“The project should have been ready by February this year. We have wasted or delayed about 13 months and therefore, I know it is not going to be 3 to 4 months of work. The work will go beyond 5 months so I can’t give the exact time that the programme will end, but to be honest with you, we can’t conclude the work on-site before the election,” he said.