The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has announced that the stalled Kumasi Central Market Phase Two project now exceeds €305 million.
This significant price hike stems from mounting suspension claims following the government’s failure to settle interim payment certificates, which led to contractor demobilisation in 2024.
Speaking in Accra on Wednesday, 6 May, the Minister noted that while the Kumasi site was 58% complete when work halted, over €27 million in certified payments remains outstanding.
A similar situation affects the Takoradi Market Circle redevelopment, which stands at 81% completion but is hindered by an unpaid balance of more than €6 million.
Minister Ibrahim cautioned that these prolonged delays have fostered congestion and unsafe trading environments, stifling local economic activity and threatening the livelihoods of thousands.
Despite these setbacks, he maintained that the government is prioritising the securing of funds to re-engage contractors and fast-track both projects to completion, citing their essential role in job creation and regional trade.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana