The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has paid a working visit to the Ashaiman Tulaku Livestock Market, recognised as the largest livestock trading centre in West Africa.

The visit is considered historic, as it is the first time a Minister of Food and Agriculture has toured the market since its establishment in the 1960s. The development was warmly welcomed by traders and market leaders.

The Ashaiman Tulaku Livestock Market is a key hub for livestock trade in the sub-region, receiving animals from countries including Burkina Faso, Mali, Nigeria and Niger. Operating кругл the clock, seven days a week, the market plays a vital role in Ghana’s food security, job creation and the supply of animal protein nationwide.

During the visit, Mr. Opoku acknowledged the strategic importance of the facility, noting its contribution to employment, protein supply and the promotion of improved meat handling and processing practices. He stressed that strengthening the livestock value chain remains a top priority for government.

The Minister recalled that President John Dramani Mahama, during the 2020 election campaign, visited the market and pledged to redevelop it, assuring traders that the government remains committed to improving conditions at the facility.

To address immediate concerns, Mr. Opoku announced the donation of 50 streetlight bulbs to improve lighting and safety for traders who work at night. He also presented GH¢30,000 to support the hiring of a payloader to clear accumulated waste, with a further assurance that government would later procure a dedicated payloader for the market.

Additionally, he directed a technical team from the Ministry to assess the possibility of processing cow dung into organic fertiliser as part of efforts to promote environmental sustainability and add value to waste products.

Mr. Opoku also recognised the role of the market’s Traders Association and encouraged continuous engagement between the Association and the Ministry. He further appealed to traders to cooperate with the Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Assembly to ensure the smooth execution of ongoing redevelopment works.

Leaders of the Ashaiman Tulaku Livestock Traders Association praised the Minister for the visit, describing it as unprecedented. They expressed hope that the engagement would lead to sustained improvements and long-term development of the market.