The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Obuasi East Municipal Assembly, Hon. William Kofi Adzowu, has met the press to explain the rationale behind the planned relocation of timber merchants and traders from the Boete Timber Market to the newly developed Industrial Enclave at Boete.
According to the MCE, the relocation is necessary to pave the way for the construction of a 24-Hour Economy Initiative Market, a project aimed at boosting economic activities within the municipality. The proposed model market will include a lorry terminal, lockable stores, market stalls, a mini clinic, police and fire service posts, banking facilities, and an early childhood education centre.
Hon. Adzowu explained that the 24-hour economy initiative, a major national agenda championed by President H.E. John Dramani Mahama, seeks to transform Ghana’s economy from an import-dependent system into a self-reliant and productive one. The initiative is expected to create jobs, increase exports, and enhance productivity through three-shift operations, supported by digital services and infrastructure, with key focus on sectors such as transport, health, and technology.
He noted that the Municipal Assembly has held a series of stakeholder engagements with executives of various associations, including wood sellers, machine operators, carpenters, and transport unions, to ensure a smooth relocation process.
The MCE further outlined key preparatory works already undertaken at the new Industrial Enclave, including:
• Mechanical clearing and levelling of the industrial site
• Demarcation and allocation of land to the various associations
• Extension of electricity to the site
• Installation of street lighting
• Ongoing drilling and mechanisation of boreholes
• Near completion of a 20-seater water closet toilet facility
Hon. Adzowu added that, following an agreement with the leadership of the traders, all artisans are expected to relocate by December 31, 2025, to enable construction of the new market to commence early next year.
