The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has asked the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) to speed up construction works on satellite market projects across the metropolis to boost economic activities.

He said it should go to every length to find the money to complete the Krofrom, Atonsu, Suame and Old-Tafo markets, to provide space for traders to do their business.

There was also an added advantage - ease the congestion at the Central Business District (CBD).

The Asantehene, who was addressing a meeting of the Kumasi Traditional Council (KTC) held at his Manhyia Palace, expressed concern about the slow pace of work by the contractors.

Things certainly would have to change to bring some relief to traders evicted from the Kejetia terminal to make way for the Central Market Re-development Project.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu noted that the delay of the markets had not been helpful to the free movement of people and vehicles in the metropolis.

It was creating a lot of inconvenience and discomfort to the people, he added.

The Asantehene used the occasion to remind chiefs to provide the right leadership to promote socio-economic development of their communities.

They should be honest in their dealings with the people and refuse to be part of anything that was not noble or dignified.

He told them to ensure that there was peace in their areas and said without that, efforts at bringing development would struggle.