Thousands of shoppers and traders thronged the Amanokrom Durbar Grounds in the Akuapem North Municipality on Saturday, December 20, as the Christmas edition of the Ofie Market recorded its largest turnout since its launch.
The event transformed the usually calm community into a bustling commercial and cultural hub, with heavy traffic reported along the Accra–Koforidua road from the early hours of the day. Visitors from across the Eastern Region arrived to purchase fresh farm produce, crafts, and a wide range of festive goods.
The Ofie Market initiative, championed by Akuapem North MP, Sammi Awuku, has rapidly grown into a flagship platform for local economic empowerment. Launched in March 2025, the market was created to connect farmers directly to consumers, helping eliminate middlemen, reduce post-harvest losses, and ensure fair prices for producers.
This year’s Christmas edition recorded unprecedented participation, with traders praising the initiative for increased sales and sustained visibility for their products. Many described the market as a lifeline for small-scale farmers and traders.
Mr. Awuku, who was warmly welcomed by traders and patrons, joined in the celebrations as the Ghana Supporters Union of the Black Stars thrilled the crowd with music and dance. He interacted with participants, danced with shoppers, and extended Christmas goodwill to the community.
A notable addition to this year’s event was a health screening station, which offered basic medical checks to attendees, underscoring the market’s expanding role beyond commerce to community wellbeing.
Traditional leaders from Amanokrom and surrounding areas commended the initiative, describing it as a transformative project that has boosted local pride and strengthened social cohesion.
Addressing traders and shoppers, Mr. Awuku reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining and expanding the Ofie Market.
“This market is not just about buying and selling; it is about creating sustainable livelihoods for farmers, traders, and the entire community,” he said.
As dusk fell on the vibrant durbar grounds, traders packed up with satisfied smiles, while shoppers departed with full baskets—bringing the Christmas edition of the Ofie Market to a joyful close.
