Alan calls for $2bn Market Infrastructure Development Fund

Presidential candidate and former trade minister Alan Kyerematen has called on the government to establish a $2 billion Market Infrastructure Development Fund following the devastating fire at Kantamanto Market.

He believes the fund will provide a sustainable solution for developing modern market facilities across Ghana, enhancing commerce and distributive trade.

Speaking to journalists, Mr. Kyerematen proposed an initial seed capital of GH¢500 million for the fund, supplemented by private sector contributions.

To incentivise corporate donations, he suggested making contributions tax-deductible.

“The private sector benefits directly or indirectly from market operations and must play an active role in building resilient infrastructure,” he emphasised.

Mr Kyerematen highlighted the economic benefits of modern markets, particularly their role in controlling inflation by improving the distribution of goods.

He urged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to allocate a percentage of their market toll revenues to the fund, ensuring consistent financial inflows for infrastructure development in all 260 districts.

He described modernised markets as essential for creating safer and more efficient trading environments, protecting lives and property, and stimulating economic activity.

“We owe it to traders and the economy to build infrastructure that is modern, safe, and sustainable,” he stated.

Mr Kyerematen’s proposal aligns with his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), which prioritises economic stability and infrastructure development.

He reaffirmed his commitment to an inclusive economy, emphasising the role of robust domestic trade networks in driving national progress.