A group of concerned traders of the Damongo daily market have submitted a formal petition to the Savannah Regional Minister, Hon. Salisu Be-Awuribi Esq., the West Gonja Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Yakubu Yussif Castro, the Paramount Chief of Damongo, Damongowura Seidu Kelly Boresa I, and the Overlord of Gonjaland, HRM Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, urging a reconsideration of the proposed site for the construction of the 24-hour economy market in Damongo.
The petition, dated 8th April, 2026, and signed under the auspices of the Concerned Traders of Damongo, comes in the wake of a directive from the Damongowura instructing that the market be constructed at the existing Damongo daily market site rather than the land behind the Damongo Community Centre, which the Municipal Assembly had originally selected.
While the petitioners expressed full support for the 24-hour economy market initiative, describing it as a bold and commendable developmental project, they strongly opposed the siting of the facility at the existing daily market location. They instead proposed alternative sites including the Damongo weekly or Saturday market, the Zongo site, or the Community Centre area.
The petitioners outlined seven key reasons for their position. First, they argued that constructing the market at the existing site would require significant compensation payments to residents, occupants, and traders; A costs the Assembly has indicated it cannot afford and that failure to pay promptly could trigger conflict and disturb the peace of the municipality.
Secondly, they noted that the government-owned alternative land is free from litigation risks, allowing construction to begin without delays from disputes or compensation negotiations.
Thirdly, the petitioners said the alternative site offers an opportunity for proper planning and modern market design, including better road networks, drainage systems, sanitation facilities, and parking spaces befitting a 24-hour economy market.
Fourth, relocating the market from the already congested existing site would ease traffic pressure, improve accessibility, and support better urban planning for the municipality.
Fifth, the government-owned land provides clearer legal and administrative frameworks, reducing the likelihood of future disputes.
Sixth, proceeding at the Assembly’s chosen site would help deter the unlawful sale of government lands, since anyone who may have acquired portions of it through unauthorized transactions would be required to seek refunds thereby promoting accountability in land administration.
Seventh, a properly planned market at a new site would attract more investors, traders, and customers, boosting long-term revenue for both the Assembly and local businesses.
The petitioners appealed to the Regional Minister and the West Gonja MCE to diplomatically engage the Damongowura to reconsider his position and back the Assembly’s original decision, stressing that collaboration among all stakeholders is essential to the successful delivery of the project for the benefit of present and future generations.
Read full petition below
