Editorial
Urgent renovation needed for Koforidua Central Market
Crowded Koforidua Central Market
Dear Editor,
I am writing to draw attention to a pressing issue that affects the heart of our community, ie, the state of the Central Market in Koforidua, the capital of the Eastern Region.
In recent times, the Koforidua Central Market has become an issue of concern among its inhabitants. The market is a bustling hub, with a multitude of traders offering their goods and services to the local population. However, the current condition of the market is a cause for alarm.
The central market’s infrastructure has deteriorated over the years, and it is now in a state of disrepair. The recent increase in rainfall has worsened the situation, as the market’s roofing is unable to provide adequate protection.
Consequently, traders often find their goods drenched, leading to substantial financial losses. It is disheartening to witness hardworking individuals struggle to make ends meet due to this avoidable problem.
Moreover, the stores within the Koforidua Central Market is inadequate for the number of traders it accommodates.
This overcrowding not only hampers business operations but also poses safety concerns. A thoughtful renovation that includes expanding the market would greatly benefit our community.
The condition of the gutters within the market is yet another concern.
These gutters are perpetually clogged, and the situation deteriorates significantly during heavy rainfall.
The resulting stagnant water not only obstructs the movement of both traders and customers but also creates an unsanitary and foul-smelling environment.
This poses health hazards and negatively impacts the overall experience of those who trade near the gutters.
I am writing this letter to implore the relevant authorities to take immediate action.
The renovation of the Koforidua Central Market is imperative to create a conducive atmosphere for our hardworking traders and improve the overall living conditions in our beloved city.
We must ensure that our community members can conduct their businesses without fear of financial losses or health hazards.
I urge all concerned parties, including government officials, municipal authorities, and community leaders, to prioritise the renovation and expansion of the Koforidua Central Market.
Let us work together to restore this vital economic and social hub to its former glory and create a thriving, clean, and safe environment for our traders and residents.
George Obeng Osei Koforidua
Editorial
ECG PowerApp: A mixed bag of technical issues, uncredited payment concerns
Dear Editor,
On February 18, 2020, the former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, launched the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) PowerApp, a mobile application designed in-house by staff of ECG.
It was to improve its service delivery to its customers.
The development of the app also meant that customers of ECG would now have the opportunity to purchase power and pay bills using their mobile phones.
That means customers of ECG would no longer have to join long queues to purchase power, but could now do that at their own convenience and in the comfort of their homes.
According to the Communication Officer, the PowerApp has increased annual revenue growth for the company.
He said as of April 2024, the new application system had increased its annual revenue growth by 128 per cent as compared to the old system at negative seven per cent.
Despite these reasons for which the app was developed and the benefits it has brought to ECG, there have been growing concerns among a section of the public on its use.
Some have argued that they were not credited after using the app to recharge their prepaid meter while the money was deducted from their MoMo accounts.
Such experience has made some customers vow not use the app to recharge their prepaid meters but rather go to prepaid vendors nearby to purchase credit. Some are even prepared to travel to far places to purchase prepaid credits.
I think such experience does not speak well of ECG because it could affect public trust in the company in its service delivery. This is the more reason why the ECG has to take the concerns raised by its customers seriously.
Kofi Bruce,
Mampong
Editorial
Our women can deliver
Dear Editor,
I write to congratulate the women that have so far caught the attention of President John Dramani Mahama for ministerial appointment.
So far, over 10 women have been vetted already and they all gave a very good account of themselves and I hope that they perform to the best of their abilities.
This is a good sign from President Mahama who demonstrated a strong resolve to provide an enabling environment for the women to be part of decision making by choosing a woman as his Vice President.
And true to his word, a number of women have been appointed in ministerial positions and others as presidential staffers.
I believe the other appointments to come would also have women making the cut.
This would be a morale booster for the young women out there who thinks that their position is the kitchen or in a man’s house as a wife.
This is a clear case of women given the urge to aim to rise above what society and traditional norms have set for them. I wish them well.
Maame Atta,
Kokompe
