Keta MP calls for local employment as Abor 24-Hour Market Project begins

Mr Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpey, the Member of Parliament for Keta Constituency, has called on contractors working on the Abor 24-Hour Market Project to ensure that at least 60 percent of the workforce is drawn from within the Keta Constituency.

The appeal was made during the sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of the market, held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Abor in the Keta Municipality. The event marked the official commencement of the much-anticipated project, which forms part of the government’s broader 24-hour economy initiative aimed at boosting trade, job creation, and local economic growth.

Addressing residents, traditional leaders, party supporters, and contractors at the ceremony, Mr Gakpey stressed the importance of ensuring that the project directly benefits the people of the constituency through employment opportunities and economic participation.

According to the MP, development efforts within the constituency must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of local residents. He therefore urged contractors to prioritize the recruitment of indigenes, particularly the youth, during the implementation phase of the project.

Mr Gakpey reiterated that it remains the responsibility of elected leaders to champion development within their constituencies, adding that the Abor 24-Hour Market Project represents a significant investment expected to transform commercial activities in the area.

He also appealed to landowners and traditional authorities to cooperate with government and release lands needed for development projects when necessary. He identified land acquisition challenges as one of the major obstacles affecting the execution of critical infrastructure projects within the constituency.

“The major challenge we continue to face is the difficulty in acquiring land for development projects because some authorities are unwilling to release land when the need arises,” the MP stated.

The legislator further appealed to residents whose properties or trading structures may be affected by the construction works to remain calm and cooperate with authorities in the broader interest of development. He acknowledged that some temporary inconveniences may occur during the implementation of the project but assured affected persons that the long-term benefits would outweigh the short-term disruptions.

Mr Gakpey, together with the leadership of the Keta Constituency, also issued a strong caution to contractors handling the project, emphasizing that unnecessary delays would not be tolerated.

Speaking during the official handing-over of the project site, he underscored the importance of completing the market within the stipulated timeframe to support the government’s vision of a vibrant 24-hour economy and to stimulate economic activities in Abor and surrounding communities.

He urged the contractors to demonstrate professionalism, commitment, and efficiency throughout the construction period, noting that residents are expecting a modern and high-quality facility capable of improving commerce, enhancing livelihoods, and creating sustainable employment opportunities.

The Abor 24-Hour Market Project is expected to serve as a major commercial hub within the municipality, providing traders and businesses with improved infrastructure and contributing to economic expansion in the Volta Region.

By: Philip Kendriz Elikem