Battor, North Tongu – 26th September 2025
The Juapong Market Executives paid a courtesy call on the District Chief Executive (DCE) of North Tongu, Hon. Victoria Amefadzi Yawa Doe, to discuss pressing issues affecting traders within the Juapong Market. The meeting, held at the District Assembly premises, was marked by a warm and cordial reception from the DCE and her management team.
The delegation explained that their visit was both to exchange pleasantries and to highlight challenges confronting market women and traders. Among the concerns raised were the inadequacy of trading spaces, severe congestion at the lorry station and along the Accra–Ho Highway, which often results in accidents, as well as the deteriorating condition of market metal structures, which pose safety risks. They also stressed the urgent need for MASLOC loans to help traders expand their businesses, improve livelihoods, and enhance their contributions to the district’s economy.
In response, Hon. Doe acknowledged the gravity of the issues and reassured the delegation of her commitment to finding lasting solutions. She explained that while the appointment of a zonal coordinator for MASLOC is still pending, she would strongly advocate for Juapong traders to benefit from the facility once structures are in place. She further emphasized the President’s commitment to a 24-hour economy, noting the Volta Star Textile Limited as a vital driver of this vision. She also briefed the delegation on the 7th Volta Trade and Investment Fair, recently launched by the Volta Regional Minister, which aims to evaluate and revive key factories such as Volta Star Textile and the Aveyime Rice Factory, alongside supporting the establishment of a satellite campus for the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in North Tongu. She commended Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu, for his efforts in championing these projects.
On the issue of infrastructure, the DCE revealed that 70 roofing sheets had already been dispatched to Juapong for the rehabilitation of a damaged market shed, with work expected to commence as soon as engineers complete their estimates. She also announced the president’s commitment to establishing a 24-hour economy market at Juapong, which would boost commercial activity and create new opportunities for traders.
Reiterating her proactive leadership style, Hon. Doe declared that she is not an “armchair DCE” but a pragmatic, field-oriented leader. She pledged to personally visit the market to monitor progress and ensure that challenges are addressed swiftly. On the critical issue of highway congestion, she promised immediate engagement with the Juapong Police Commander and relevant stakeholders to design a sustainable plan that prioritizes safety and order.
The meeting concluded with the Juapong Market Executives expressing profound gratitude to the DCE and her management team for their warm reception, attentiveness, and firm assurances of support. They pledged their readiness to collaborate with the Assembly to make Juapong a vibrant hub of commerce within North Tongu.
