Ofie Market Cements Its Role as a Pillar of Rural Economic Growth

The third edition of the now-celebrated Ofie Market unfolded in grand style on Saturday, May 24, 2025, once again transforming Amanokrom into a thriving hub of rural commerce and community enterprise.

The initiative, championed by the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Hon. Sammi Awuku, continued to build momentum as thousands of buyers and sellers poured into the town for what has quickly become a cornerstone event on the local economic calendar.

This edition recorded the highest patronage to date, with over 200 traders and farmers participating, and market attendance exceeding earlier estimates.

The diversity of goods—from freshly harvested produce, tubers, grains, livestock, local spices, oils, and textiles, to handicrafts and household items—offered shoppers quality choices at unbeatable prices.

“This market is changing lives. It is no longer just a trading post—it’s a revival of our economic dignity,” remarked Akosua Adubea, a vegetable farmer from Konko. “Each month, I now have real income to support my family.”

Building Economic Momentum at the Grassroots

The Ofie Market has become more than a one-day event. It is a catalyst for sustained rural economic growth. By connecting producers directly with consumers, the initiative is eliminating middlemen, reducing post-harvest losses, and boosting profitability for farmers.

Local businesses—especially food vendors, transportation operators, mobile money agents, and logistics handlers—continue to reap the benefits of increased economic activity on market days.

With every edition, the market is unlocking new layers of employment and microenterprise growth across Amanokrom and its surrounding towns.

According to figures shared by local assembly officials, the cumulative volume of trade over the three editions is already in excess of ₵1.2 million, with steady monthly growth.

“This is economic stimulation in action,” noted a transport operator. “Our taxis and tricycles are working nonstop on market day. It’s a blessing for all of us.”

Community Spirit and Resilience on Display

Not even intermittent rainfall in the afternoon hours could dampen the spirit of the day. As the skies opened briefly, traders and buyers continued engaging in transactions under umbrellas and canopies, reflecting their commitment to the initiative and the market’s growing cultural importance.

“It rained, but business didn’t stop,” said Kojo Antwi, a trader from Larteh. “That shows how valuable this market is. People were literally bargaining in the rain.”

Leadership That Listens

Addressing the media during the event, Hon. Sammi Awuku reaffirmed his dedication to expanding the market’s scope and institutionalizing it as a permanent development vehicle.

“What we are witnessing is a people-centered transformation. Ofie Market is restoring confidence in rural enterprise. We are now exploring value-added services like agro-processing, micro-financing, and branding for our local producers. This is only the beginning,” he said.

He also revealed plans to engage technical and vocational institutions to provide packaging and market-readiness training for traders and youth entrepreneurs ahead of future editions.

Traditional Endorsements and Future Growth

Traditional leaders once again expressed admiration for the sustained impact of the initiative. The Chief of Amanokrom, Nana Osim Kwatia II, reiterated his full support.

“Ofie Market has brought more than money—it has brought dignity, unity, and opportunity. Let us preserve and grow it.”

As anticipation builds for the next edition on Saturday, 28th June 2025, there is no doubt that Ofie Market is evolving into a model for community-led development, replicable across constituencies nationwide.