Abor neglect multi-million cedi market for 13 years

Abor, Oct 8, GNA - A multi-million-cedi market built under the Trade and Investment Support and the Agricultural Sector support programmes (PISP) and (ASSIP) at Abor in the Keta District remains neglected by the people since its completion in 1993.

The market that has about eight sheds, 50 stores and stalls, places of convenience and a drainage system sits on a one-and- half-acre plot of land.

The building of the market was to promote the marketing of cowpea and other vegetables produced in the area.

This came to light when the MP for Keta, Mr Dan Abodakpui, who addressed the people at their third Ayiza, (Cowpea festival) at the weekend at Abor.

He expressed unhappiness about the neglect of the facility that was put up to help the people to market their farm produce. "I am happy over your festival but sad about your neglect of the market which was to help you generate incomes for yourself and the Keta District," Mr Abodakpui said.

In an interview with the GNA later, Mr Abodakpui ruled out litigation over the land and said though it was an issue in the beginning it was resolved soon after the project was completed. "The presence of the already booming Akatsi market could be a reason for the people choosing it over their own market," Mr Abodakpui said.

"The point I want them to understand is that they are doing disservice to themselves by neglecting their own resources for that of others to whom they pay taxes levies instead of to themselves". Rev Jim Fugar, the Chairman of the Abor Youth Development Association, said the association was working hard to get the market, now overgrown with filth and weeds and a portion ploughed for a farm, opened to attract traders for the large quantity of cowpea produced annually.

Mr Kofi Dzamesi, the Volta Regional Minister, appealed to the people to abandon their individual sales points dotted all over town and relocate to the market.

He said three tractors would be allocated to the Keta District one of which would be for Abor.

Togbe Dordzeavudzi Atrifu IV appealed for an extra place of convenience for the town.