Winneba: The Government has pledged to establish an ultramodern gated market operating 24 hours a day in Winneba, in response to a request made by Neenyi Ghartey VII, the Paramount Chief of the Effutu Traditional Area, during the 2025 Aboakyer Festival.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, announced that the market would feature extensive security measures, including a police post, fire station, and a cr¨che. This initiative is part of the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy. Initially planned for the 16 regional capitals, Winneba has been selected as the starting point due to its strategic significance. The market is intended to honor the Paramount Chief and enhance the city’s status.
The Aboakyer Festival, known for its cultural significance, was celebrated under the theme ‘Championing Our Ancestral Legacy.’ The event drew hundreds of participants, both locals and foreigners, to partake in the festivities. Chiefs paraded in traditional attire, and the event proceeded smoothly, underpinned by a significant security presence. Local vendors experienced increased business activity during the celebrations.
The festival’s climax involved the return of the Asafo companies from their hunting expedition, with the Tuafo Asafo Company emerging victorious by capturing a live bushbuck. They presented the animal to Neenyi Ghartey, marking their success in the 2025 Aboakyer hunting race. The Minister praised the community for maintaining the festival’s traditions and emphasized the importance of environmental sustainability for the festival’s future.
In an appeal to the assembly members and traditional authorities, Mr. Ibrahim urged them to support Mr. Abraham Arthur, the Municipal Chief Executive nominee for Effutu, with full endorsement to foster municipal development. Neenyi Ghartey highlighted the need for a new market and called upon President John Mahama to create a lasting legacy for Winneba.
Mr. Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, the Central Regional Minister, encouraged corporate entities to establish businesses in Winneba, emphasizing job creation for the youth. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to skill development for employment generation.
The Aboakyer festival, held annually in May, honors the principal deity, Penkye Otu, and symbolizes the historic journey of the Effutu people from Timbuktu to their present settlement. The festival has evolved over centuries from human sacrifices to the present practice of hunting bushbucks, reflecting societal changes and the community’s enduring respect for tradition.