The Municipal Chief Executive for Atwima Nwabiagya South, Wisdom Osei Boamah, popularly known as Okumkom, has assured residents in the area that at least 70% of jobs created under the proposed 24-hour model market will first go to them.

Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the project at Abuakwa, the MCE stressed that the Assembly will ensure that indigenes benefit directly from the market before opportunities are extended to outsiders.

“This 24-hour model market is for our people. From the start of construction to its completion, those within Atwima Nwabiagya South will be considered first. We must create jobs for our own youth.”

The MCE noted that the project will provide massive employment opportunities for artisans, labourers and traders in the area, adding that the 24-hour economy model is designed to reduce unemployment among the youth.

He has, therefore, urged the contractors on the project to employ at least 70 percent local people from the area. According to him, there are good masons, steel benders, carpenters, painters, labourers, etc., in the area who can be employed and work effectively.

Wisdom Osei Boamah also called on residents, especially the youth, to take advantage of the project and fit into the various job opportunities the market will generate, adding that those who do not have any such skills should acquire them.

Meanwhile, he said the 24-hour model market at Abuakwa forms part of the government’s agenda to boost local economies and operationalise the 24-hour economy policy.

He finally used the opportunity to appeal to all affected traders who have their containers on the land to cooperate with the contractor and have them removed to ensure the progress of work.