Even a sudden afternoon rain couldn’t dampen the vibrant spirit at Amanokrom on Saturday, April 26, 2025, as the second edition of the Ofie Market unfolded with even greater success than the first. Farmers, traders, and eager buyers braved the showers under colorful umbrellas, determined to seize the opportunities the market has come to represent.
Building on the momentum of its maiden edition, this second Ofie Market saw a surge in participation, signaling a significant economic shift within the Akuapem North Constituency.
From the early hours, the town buzzed with energy. Farmers and traders, now better prepared and well-stocked, offered an even broader variety of fresh produce, grains, tubers, livestock, fabrics, and household goods.
Shoppers poured in from across the Eastern and Greater Accra Regions, drawn by the promise of quality goods at affordable prices.
The day witnessed a remarkable jump in trading volumes. Vendors reported doubling their inventory—yet many still sold out by midday.
“I brought twice what I sold last month and still ran out early. Ofie Market has changed our lives. We now farm with real confidence, knowing there’s a market waiting,” shared a jubilant farmer from Tinkong.
Small-scale processors—gari makers, palm oil producers, shea butter sellers—also found ready markets, while artisans like tailors and carpenters experienced a notable boom in patronage.
The market’s ripple effect reached far beyond the grounds. Food vendors, taxi and trotro drivers, mobile money agents, and even accommodation providers all recorded higher business volumes, turning the entire town into a hive of economic activity.
“When the market opens, everybody wins. Transport, food, mobile money—every sector feels the boost,” said a food vendor stationed near the event grounds.
Beyond trading, the Ofie Market is helping tackle rural unemployment. Many young people are finding jobs as porters, loaders, assistants, and logistics aides.
Local authorities noted that in just two editions, the Ofie Market has driven more commercial traffic to Amanokrom than any other community project in recent years.
Touring the bustling grounds, Hon. Sammi Awuku—Member of Parliament for Akuapem North and the market’s brain behind—expressed his satisfaction with the initiative’s impact.
“The Ofie Market is achieving exactly what we dreamed of—linking hardworking farmers directly to buyers and breathing new life into our economy. We are now working on introducing microloans, agricultural extension services, and marketing training to help sustain and expand these gains.”
He also emphasized plans to institutionalize the market, making it a permanent monthly event held on the last Saturday of each month, ensuring consistency and growth opportunities for participants.
Nana Osim Kwatia II, Chief of Amanokrom, hailed the Ofie Market as a transformative development.
“Through this brilliant idea, our son Sammi Awuku has rekindled hope in Amanokrom. Jobs are being created, farmers are hopeful again, and commerce is flourishing. We must all support this initiative to ensure it endures,” he said.
With two highly successful editions under its belt, the Ofie Market is fast emerging as a national model for rural economic empowerment—boosting farmer incomes, stimulating entrepreneurship, cutting post-harvest losses, and strengthening community bonds.
The next edition is already generating buzz and is set for Saturday, May 31, 2025.