OFIE Market opens with Massive patronage

On Saturday morning, the Amanokrom Community Centre Park was bustling. Hundreds of residents gathered for the long-awaited "Ofie Market." This event took place in the Akuapem North Constituency of the Eastern Region.

The initiative was launched by Member of Parliament Samuel Kwabena Awuku, also known as Sammi Awuku. The quiet community center transformed into a lively marketplace filled with vendors and eager consumers.

The Ofie Market occurred on March 29, 2025. It aims to reduce post-harvest losses and improve access to fresh produce at affordable prices. Sammi Awuku created this market to help farmers sell their products directly to consumers.

In 2024, the idea for the Ofie Market emerged during Awuku's campaign for MP. Agriculture is vital to the local economy, but farmers often face significant post-harvest losses. Many crops spoil before reaching consumers due to middlemen interference.

Awuku recognized these challenges and promised a direct selling space for farmers. The market will occur on the last Saturday of each month and has gained strong community support. Over 500 farmers and 300 market queens have committed to participating.

People from various areas, including commuters from Accra, flocked to Amanokrom for fresh foodstuffs. Traders offered a wide variety of produce like vegetables, fruits, and staples at competitive prices.

Local authorities welcomed MP Sammi Awuku as he observed the event. He highlighted how important this market is for supporting the local economy. He expressed satisfaction with its success, fulfilling a key promise from his campaign.

The Ofie Market not only sells organic produce but also enhances community life. A playground was set up for children so families could shop comfortably together.

Operating from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., it has become a social hub with food vendors and entertainment adding vibrancy.

Supported by the Municipal Directorate of Food and Agriculture, this initiative serves as a model for addressing agricultural challenges through community efforts. Local farmers are grateful for this opportunity; it helps them reduce waste while earning better prices.

The successful launch on March 29 suggests that Ofie Market will be essential for residents in Akuapem North and beyond. Despite challenges ahead, Sammi Awuku’s vision is making an impact, fostering optimism among locals about their future.