Thousands gather for Ofie Market in Akuapem North

On Saturday, May 24, 2025, the sun rose early over Amanokrom Durbar Grounds. The air buzzed with thousands of footsteps and lively market chatter. The aroma of freshly harvested produce filled the space.

Ofie Market 3.0 had arrived, bringing a historic turnout.

People from Akuapem and Accra came together for this event. They aimed to support a movement that restores dignity to Ghanaian farmers. This was more than just a market; it was a statement.

Ofie Market started as a promise from MP Sammi Awuku during his 2024 campaign. He pledged to help local farmers facing post-harvest losses and limited market access. Farmers often lost profits to middlemen who exploited their hard work.

“My dream,” Awuku said in early 2024, “was to create a space for direct sales.”

The first Ofie Market took place in March 2025 at the Amanokrom Community Centre Park. Over 500 farmers and 300 vendors participated, selling cassava, garden eggs, dried fish, and crafts. The response was overwhelming—sales soared and spirits lifted.

By April 26, Ofie Market 2.0 had taken root despite challenges from rain. A sudden downpour tested participants' resolve but they persevered.

Traders held firm while shoppers remained engaged. One vendor remarked, “It was wet and wonderful—we sold out before noon.” The rains proved that Ofie Market symbolized grit and unity.

With Ofie Market 3.0, expectations were high—and turnout exceeded them all.

The grounds transformed into a vibrant hub of commerce and culture. Thousands browsed stalls filled with ripe plantains, palm oil, citrus fruits, shea butter, and more. Families, students, tourists, and dignitaries mingled under the open sky.

“This is our market,” said Akua Donkor, a tomato farmer from Obosomase. “For the first time, I set my own prices—and sold everything.”

Beyond buying and selling, music and dance filled the air with joy. Volunteers kept the area clean while youth groups assisted the elderly—creating an organized yet spirited atmosphere.

What began as a local promise is now becoming a national model.

Organizers plan to expand through mobile markets for rural communities. They are also discussing support for cold storage facilities and micro-loans to boost productivity.

A visibly moved Sammi Awuku stated that Ofie Market is now a permanent fixture in Ghana’s economy. Traditional leaders praised it as “a blessing to the land.”

In just three months, Ofie Market has evolved into an economic empowerment model. It’s about respecting farmers and strengthening communities—not just selling food.

As goods were packed up at sunset behind the Akuapem hills, one message stood out: this is only the beginning.

“Ofie Market is our future,” said Yaw Owusu, a maize farmer who sold out by 2 p.m., “and we’re just getting started.”