By: Gogu Edwin
The West Gonja Municipal Assembly has officially reopened and operationalized the Damongo Saturday Market, popularly known as Krobaso Market on 18th October, 2025, following the completion of major rehabilitation works funded through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).
Speaking at the brief ceremony, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for West Gonja, Hon. Yakubu Yussif Castro, commended traders, assembly members, the media, and members of the Market Operationalization Committee for their cooperation and commitment toward making the reopening possible.
He noted that although the project, which began several years ago, had suffered delays and structural deterioration, recent interventions under the DACF brought significant improvements, including the construction of additional market stalls, a modern butcher facility, and a toilet block. Electricity extension works and other finishing touches were also initiated to make the market more functional.
“Though we are operationalizing the market today, there are still some outstanding works to be completed,” Hon. Castro stated. “The toilet facility and electrical connections need to be finalized, and we appeal to the Common Fund Secretariat to ensure that the contractor completes the remaining work.”
The MCE also praised the Market Operationalization Committee, chaired by Jira, for successfully mapping out product and service zones, allocating stores, and ensuring smooth relocation of traders from the temporary daily market to the renovated Saturday market.
“Beyond today, the committee’s work continues,” he added. “They will evaluate what has been done, address any rough edges, and ensure that we eventually have a perfect and fully functional market.”
Hon. Castro further disclosed his long-term vision to transform the Saturday market into a daily trading center, serving surrounding communities and boosting local economic activity.
“It is my hope that this market will soon operate daily, so nearby communities can trade here throughout the week, with Saturdays reserved for the main market day when all converge,” he said.
Expressing their excitement, market women who spoke to this source shared their gratitude for the new facility.
Madam Asana, a tomato seller, said the new stalls provide much-needed shade and organization for traders.
“We are very happy that the Assembly has finally opened the market. For a long time, we have been selling under the sun. Now we have proper stalls to sell our goods,” she said with a smile.
Madam Ajara, who sells grains and spices, added that the reopening would attract more customers and improve business.
“When a market is well arranged and safe, buyers feel comfortable coming. We thank the MCE and the Committee for listening to our concerns and helping us return here,” she said.
The reopening ceremony was attended by members of the Market Operationalization Committee, including a rep from Yiram Damongowura, assembly members, traders, security officers, and media representatives.
The Damongo Krobaso Market, one of the largest in the Savannah Region, is expected to enhance local commerce and promote economic growth within the West Gonja Municipality.
