Aflao, Volta Region – 31st July, 2025
In a significant diplomatic and developmental move, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Tong Defa, has paid an official visit to Aflao in the Ketu South Municipality to inspect the proposed site for the construction of the much-anticipated Aflao Modern Market, also known as Asigame.
The ambassador’s visit was undertaken alongside Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Member of Parliament for the area, who also doubles as the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, and other state officials
The visit marked a crucial step in the preparatory processes for the commencement of the modern market project, which is expected to be financed through a grant from the Chinese government.
Ambassador Tong Defa, during the inspection tour, engaged with key stakeholders, including the Paramount Chief and President of the Aflao Traditional Council, Togbuiga Adzonugaga Fiti Amenya V, and other traditional leaders.
In a closed-door meeting, he expressed optimism about the project’s potential to enhance trade and development in the Ketu South Municipality and beyond. He commended the Government of Ghana for honouring its promise to the people of Aflao and reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation through impactful infrastructure projects.
“This project symbolises the strong bond between China and Ghana. We are proud to support an initiative that will boost trade and uplift the lives of people in Aflao and beyond.” Mr Tong said.
Speaking during the engagement, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie described the visit as historic and expressed her excitement about the realisation of a project she believes will transform the local economy and boost regional commerce. She called on constituents to maintain confidence in the Mahama-led administration as it continues to deliver on its promises.
Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa highlighted the strategic importance of Aflao as a commercial hub that connects Ghana to other West African countries. He emphasised that the market, once completed, will serve as a major trading centre within the ECOWAS sub-region. He further disclosed plans to upgrade the road network from Accra to Aflao to support increased economic activity.
The visit concluded with the Chinese Ambassador reiterating his country’s longstanding friendship with Ghana and commending President John Dramani Mahama for keeping his word to the people of Ketu South.
The Aflao Modern Market project, when completed, is expected to be a state-of-the-art trading facility that will significantly enhance economic opportunities in the region and serve as a model for market infrastructure across Ghana.
