Techiman Municipal Assembly engages traders ahead of decongestion exercise

Management of the Techiman Municipal Assembly has held a stakeholder meeting with market women, traders and driver unions at the Bonokyempem Hall to discuss an upcoming decongestion exercise in the municipality.

In his opening remarks, the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Martin Adjei Mensah, said the meeting was to formally inform stakeholders about the decongestion exercise scheduled for February 15, 2026, particularly along the stretch from Sunyani Station to Nana Addae Simon Bridge.

He explained that the exercise would involve the removal of traders selling along roadsides and lorry parks, as well as those who have extended containers beyond their shops, to create access routes and adequate space within the market. He noted that the exercise would affect some traders, making prior engagement and sensitisation necessary.

Hon. Adjei Mensah also informed participants that the Assembly has constituted a new committee, chaired by Mr J. Adom, to supervise revenue mobilisation activities. He urged traders and drivers to comply with the new rules and regulations, especially with regard to the payment of revenue.

The MCE further briefed the gathering on the proposed 24 hour economy market earmarked for construction at the Wa Station. He said government intends to upgrade the Techiman Market to the standard of the Kejetia Market. As a result, traders who will be affected by the redevelopment will be temporarily relocated to Abourso, the Orange Market and Millennium Park.

Speaking on behalf of the Techiman Traditional Council, Nana Kentenhene, who also doubles as the Dabehene, Nana Antwi Boasiko, reiterated the points made by the MCE and urged traders to fully comply with the directives issued by the Assembly. He also advised pragya drivers to operate strictly in line with the rules and regulations governing their activities and encouraged traders to contribute actively to the development of the municipality.

The Techiman Divisional Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Albert Fii Othil, addressed issues of crime within the market and advised traders to take proper care of their goods. He cautioned pragya drivers to load only three passengers at a time, in accordance with regulations.

He further disclosed that police personnel would be deployed to the market to maintain law and order during the decongestion exercise. Chief Superintendent Othil announced that the operation would commence in two weeks and advised all stakeholders to prepare accordingly.

He concluded by encouraging teamwork among traders and urged them to remain vigilant, safeguard their money and exercise caution when engaging in phone calls related to financial transactions within the market.