Accra: Ghana has secured a $30 million grant from the Government of the People's Republic of China for the construction of a modern market in Aflao. This development marks the fulfillment of a campaign pledge made by President John Dramani Mahama during the 2024 general elections. The grant agreement was officially signed at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, signed the agreement on behalf of the Government of Ghana, while the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Tong Defa, signed on behalf of the Chinese Government. The facility, part of an Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement between the two countries, aims to transform Aflao into a thriving commercial hub by providing modern infrastructure for trade.
The new market is expected to significantly enhance economic activity along the Ghana-Togo border, linking Ho and Lom© markets and improving livelihoods across the wider West African corridor. The project takes inspiration from the Kotokuraba Market in Cape Coast, also funded by a similar Chinese grant during the late President John Evans Atta Mills and then-Vice President Mahama's administration. That market has since become a symbol of successful bilateral cooperation between Ghana and China.
Mr. Ablakwa, speaking at the signing ceremony and subsequently in a social media post, expressed appreciation to the Chinese Government for the continued support and reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship. He stated that the project will not only honor President Mahama's promise to the people of Aflao but also drive regional integration, boost intra-African trade, and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs. He highlighted the strategic selection of Aflao as a key trading enclave that connects Ghana to the rest of West Africa through the ECOWAS corridor.
Chinese Ambassador Mr. Tong Defa also praised the cooperation between the two countries, noting that the project is part of broader efforts to implement 'down-to-earth' and people-centered initiatives that bring tangible benefits to both nations. He mentioned productive discussions on implementing practical projects under the Agreement to better benefit the peoples of both countries.
The Aflao market project, according to officials, will include state-of-the-art facilities to ensure a safe and efficient trading environment.
