The Volta River Authority (VRA) has commissioned and officially handed over a newly constructed fish wharf market to fish sellers at Kpong in the Lower Manya Krobo Municipality of the Eastern Region.
Speaking during the facility’s commissioning, Acting Deputy Chief Executive of VRA, Mr. Samuel Odartey Lamptey, noted that the initiative aimed to improve traders’ livelihoods while safeguarding the Volta Lake ecosystem.
The event, held on the theme: “Empowering Fisher Folks for Sustainable Livelihood – Nurturing the Hands that Feed You,” brought together VRA officials, market women, political leaders, traditional authorities, Assembly members, and residents of the Kpong community.
Mr. Lamptey explained that the initiative was part of a strategic effort to relocate fishmongers from the waterfront to ensure safety, hygiene, and environmental sustainability.
“It is an honour to speak on a matter that touches not only on the lives of our hardworking fish sellers, but also the health of our environment and the sustainability of our natural resource, the Volta Lake,” he said.
He explained that trading activities along the Kpong waterfront had obstructed dredging and weed harvesting operations, which were crucial to controlling aquatic weeds threatening to overrun the lake.
The relocation project, he said, was therefore undertaken to protect both the lake and the people who depend on it.
Mr. Lamptey stressed that the move was more than just an administrative exercise, describing it as “a strategic intervention to preserve the integrity of the Volta Lake for the benefit of all.”
He added that the wharf was not designed for commercial trading and noted that the absence of basic sanitation facilities had resulted in unhygienic practices endangering public health and the environment.
“This project is not just about moving people, it is about creating a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable trading environment,” he added.
The new facility includes a secure fence wall, market sheds, washrooms, septic systems, roofing, electrical installations, and sanitary appliances.
The project was completed at an estimated cost of ₵1,943,454.27, a figure Mr. Lamptey described as “a testament to what can be achieved when environmental stewardship meets community welfare.”
He called on fishmongers and residents to sustain the initiative and adapt to change, noting that the relocation marked “a social renewal of our commitment to the environment, our people, and the future of the Volta Lake.”
Mr. John Atteh Matey, Municipal Chief Executive for Lower Manya Krobo, expressed gratitude to VRA for its support in funding the project after the Assembly requested assistance to relocate traders to pave way for weed clearing along the Kpong River Bank.
He explained that the new wharf market offered traders a better and safer working environment compared to the previous informal landing site, which exposed them to harsh weather conditions.
“This facility will facilitate the modernization of the fisheries sector and forms part of broader efforts to maximize Ghana’s fishing potential through improved infrastructure,” Mr. Matey said.
He also revealed that Kpong had been selected to benefit from the government’s 24-hour economy policy, under which a modern 24-hour market will be constructed near the Kpong Metro Mass Station to boost local economic activity.
“This will enhance fish sales in Kpong and further strengthen trading activities across Lower Manya Krobo,” he added, noting that plans are also advanced for the rehabilitation of the Batorkodze road to improve access to the area.
The MCE urged the market queens and fish sellers to take good care of the new facility to ensure its longevity.
“I therefore urge the market queens to maintain this facility so it can stand the test of time,” he said.
Madam Mary Kokroko, the Market Queen Mother for Kpong Fish Sellers, commended VRA and the Assembly for the gesture and promised to ensure full compliance among traders.
“This is a big opportunity for us and an improvement to our lives. As queen, I will make sure every fish seller moves into the market. Anyone who refuses will face sanctions,” she warned.
Nene Kpabitey Nyarko II, Chief of Kpong, also congratulated VRA for completing the project and said the upcoming 24-hour market and road rehabilitation would further boost fish sales.
“When the roads are improved and the area is well lit, travelers will buy fish from our women, and that will boost the local economy,” the chief said, urging VRA to continue clearing weeds from the river and for traders to maintain the new market.
The commissioning of the Kpong Fish Wharf Market represents a significant step toward modernizing Ghana’s local fisheries infrastructure while balancing economic growth with environmental protection.
