Sammy Awuku, MP for Akuapem North in the Eastern Region, has launched the Ofie Market initiative at Amanokrom with a call on local farmers and traders to use the initiative as a platform to boost economic activities in the constituency and beyond.
The monthly initiative is designed to provide a direct marketplace for farmers to sell their produce, enhance food security, effectively reduce post-harvest losses and create opportunities for traders within the municipality.
It also aims to empower farmers in the area by ensuring their hard work translates into financial gains while providing consumers with fresh and affordable produce.
Meanwhile, more than 300 farmers and over 500 market queens have signed up, a testament to the growing enthusiasm surrounding the initiative.
Speaking to the media, the MP for Akuapem North, Samuel Awuku, said the Ofie Market initiative is to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure market access for local producers. He said he would mobilise financial institutions to introduce interest-free loans for farmers and traders to expand their businesses.
Mr Awuku called on constituents to support the initiative as he works towards improving livelihoods and economic development in the municipality.
Nana Osim Kwatia II, Amanokromhene & Akwapim Gyasehene, in an interview, called the initiative visionary and urged farmers to take advantage of it.
He particularly expressed appreciation for the MP’s plan to provide transportation to cart the farm produce from the farm gates to the market centres, which he noted would significantly reduce costs for both farmers and consumers.
Nana Osim Kwatia II said the Ofie Market Initiative is a welcome development for the people of Akuapem North, which has the potential to transform the lives of constituents and contribute to the region’s prosperity.
The queen mother of Amanokrom, and Gyasehemaa of the Akuapem Traditional Council, Nana Manko Aba II, speaking with NET2 TV NEWS, expressed optimism about the Ofie Market initiative, adding that going forward with the next edition will be an exceptional event.
She also cautioned farmers and traders not to inflate their prices.
Some of the participating farmers and market queens expressed their thoughts on the Ofie Market Initiative.
