Ms. Vicentia Sename Leyo, an aspiring District Chief Executive (DCE) for Agortime-Ziope, has pledged to construct an ultramodern market in Kpetoe to provide a conducive environment for market women.
She noted that the current state of the market was deplorable, making it difficult for traders to operate comfortably, especially during harsh weather conditions.
Speaking during a visit to the Kpetoe market, Ms. Leyo expressed concern over the poor conditions under which the traders worked.
She observed that many of the market women had been forced to erect makeshift sheds using palm fronds, leaving them exposed to rain and scorching sun.
"The current condition of the Kpetoe market is unacceptable. Women come here to trade and support their families, but they are met with conditions that make their work difficult. If given the opportunity, I will work hard to ensure that an ultramodern market is built for the people of Kpetoe,"
Ms. Leyo assured.
During her interaction with traders, several women shared their struggles in the market. Mad. Vincentia Akligo, a maize seller, explained that when it rains, traders scramble to cover their goods with plastic sheets before seeking shelter.
She described the situation as frustrating and unworthy of a market serving such a vibrant community.
Another trader, Fortune, who sells fish and cooking ingredients, lamented the added challenge of strong winds during rain, which often destroyed their makeshift stalls and exposed their goods to damage.
The traders recalled that construction of the market began during the tenure of the late President John Evans Atta Mills but was never completed. They urged Ms. Leyo to prioritize the market's construction if she is appointed DCE.
"We have suffered in this market for far too long. We believe that as a woman, Ms. Leyo will understand our plight and work to improve the market for us," Fortune stated.
The traders expressed their confidence in Ms. Leyo's leadership, believing she has the capability to transform Agortime- Ziope and lift the market's status.
They commended her for showing genuine interest in their welfare and promised to support her aspirations.
Ms. Leyo, who is among eight aspirants vying for the DCE position in Agortime-Ziope, assured the traders of her commitment to their welfare and noted that the development of the Kpetoe market would not only improve the commitment to their welfare and noted that the development of the Kpetoe market would not only improve the livelihoods of traders but also enhance the local economy by attracting more buyers and sellers to the area.
"A modern market in Kpetoe will provide a safe and secure environment for trade. It will boost economic activities and position Agortime-Ziope as a hub for commerce in the Volta Region," she added.
She also expressed her willingness to collaborate with the Member of Parliament for the area and other stakeholders to ensure the project becomes a reality.
The market women reiterated their hope that Ms. Leyo would deliver on her promise, trusting that as a woman, she would empathize with their challenges and work diligently to address them.
Ms. Leyo's pledge to transform the Kpetoe market has ignited renewed hope among the traders, who believe her vision and leadership could bring about the much-needed development in the area.