By King Amoah
Traders affected by the devastating fire at Kumasi’s Adum Blue Light market are passionately appealing to Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Bryan Acheampong, to follow through on his promise to rebuild their shops.
Following a substantial donation of GH¢300,000 on April 25th, 2025, Hon Bryan. Acheampong also former Minster of Agriculture pledged to construct a two-story facility for over 200 affected traders, contingent upon receiving the mandate from Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II who was then outside the country.
With the Asantehene now back in Ghana, traders are publicly urging the Member of Parliament to seek this crucial approval.
Several traders interviewed expressed a strong preference for Hon. Acheampong to oversee the project.
They believe his independent status as an MP offers the best chance of timely completion, unlike potential bureaucratic delays associated with government-led initiatives.
Frederick Acheampong, a Tiles dealer, highlighted the MP’s ability to efficiently deliver the project.
Tweneboah Kodua, a Rice distributor, suggested that Hon Acheampong’s undertaking would free up funds from the Asantehene, potentially redirecting them toward other vital initiatives like the Otumfuo Education Fund among others.
The appeal also reflects a lack of confidence in the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA). Madam Joanna Frema and Ekua Serwa, Secondhand clothing dealers whom they had earlier fronted for an apologies from the KMA boss over his flogging statement on traders in Kumasi suggested Otumfuo’ should give mandate to the Mp when he visits him on a mission to seek his permission to rebuild the market.
Bright Opoku, a butcher, Stephen Owiredu a shoe maker and Kofi Amponsah all voiced support for Hon Bryan. Acheampong’s involvement, even suggesting the removal of the KMA mayor Richard Ofori Agyeman Boadi..
Their concerns stem from recent controversial statements made by the Mayor Mr regarding traders.
While Hon. Acheampong has assured cooperation with the KMA and the Regional Minister, the traders’ preference for his direct involvement underscores their desire for a swift and efficient reconstruction process.
The KMA’s response to requests for comment was unavailable at the time of publication.
The Mayor Richard Ofori Agyeman Boadi was not readily available at his office for his reaction and hardly responded to a Whatsapp message forwarded to him.
This leaves the ball squarely in Hon. Byrian Acheampong’s court, awaiting his visit to the Asantehene to secure the necessary authorization and commence the much-needed rebuilding of the Kumasi Adum Blue Light market.
