Decongestion exercise to begin in Techiman market

The Techiman Municipal Assembly has announced the commencement of a decongestion exercise aimed at improving order, safety, and free movement within the Techiman market and its surrounding areas.

Management of the Assembly on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, held a stakeholder meeting with market women, traders, and driver unions at the Bonokyempem Hall to deliberate on the upcoming exercise and outline modalities for its implementation.

In his opening remarks, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Techiman, Hon. Kwaku Adjei Mensah, explained that the meeting was to formally inform stakeholders about the decongestion exercise scheduled to begin on February 15, 2026. He said the operation would cover areas from the Sunyani Station to the Nana Addae Simon Bridge.

Hon. Kwaku Adjei Mensah noted that the exercise would involve the removal of traders operating on roadsides, at lorry parks, and those who have extended containers or structures beyond their designated shop spaces. According to him, the move is intended to create adequate space, ease congestion, and enhance safety within the market.

He acknowledged that the exercise would affect some traders, stressing that the Assembly considered it necessary to engage them ahead of time to ensure understanding and cooperation.

The MCE further informed participants that the Assembly has constituted a new revenue mobilization committee, chaired by Mr. J. Adom, to oversee revenue collection activities. He urged traders and transport operators to comply with the committee’s rules and regulations, particularly regarding the payment of market tolls and other approved fees.

Touching on market redevelopment, the Techiman South MCE briefed stakeholders on government plans to establish a 24-hour economy market at the Wa Station. He disclosed that the Techiman market is expected to be developed to standards comparable to the Kejetia Market in Kumasi. As a result, traders who may be affected by the redevelopment would be temporarily relocated to Abourso, the Orange Market, and Millennium Park.

Speaking on behalf of the Techiman Traditional Council, the Kentenhene and Dabehene, Nana Antwi Boasiko, reiterated the MCE’s message and urged traders and drivers to comply fully with the directives issued by the Assembly. He particularly advised pragya riders to operate strictly within the rules and regulations governing their operations.

He encouraged traders to support initiatives that promote orderliness and contribute to the overall development of the Techiman Municipality.

The Techiman Divisional Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Albert Fii Othil, addressed issues of crime and security within the market. He advised traders to take proper care of their goods and remain vigilant, especially during busy market hours.

Chief Superintendent Othil cautioned pragya drivers to carry only three passengers at a time, in accordance with existing transport regulations. He also announced that police personnel would be deployed to the market to maintain law and order during and after the decongestion exercise.

He further informed stakeholders that the decongestion operation would commence within two weeks and urged all affected persons to prepare accordingly.

The police commander concluded by encouraging teamwork among traders and advising them to be cautious with their money and phone conversations, particularly those involving financial transactions, while operating in the market.