THE ROLE OF ROAD TRANSPORTATION SERVICE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF

TRADITIONAL MARKET’S: A CASE OF ASESEWA AND AGORMANYA

TRADITIONAL MARKETS IN THE EASTERN REGION, GHANA.

By

ANGMOR EMMANUEL NARTEH

(B.A Integrated Development Studies)

A Thesis submitted to the School of Graduate Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of

Science and Technology, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCE
IN DEVELOPMENT POLICY AND PLANNING

Department of Planning
College of Architecture and Planning

June, 2012
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that this submission is my own work towards the MSc. in Development Policy
and Planning and that, to the best of my knowledge, it contains no material previously published
by another person or material which has been accepted for the award of any other degree of the
University, except where acknowledgement has been made in the text.

ANGMOR EMMANUEL NARTEH …………………….. ………………

(PG 3000609) SIGNATURE DATE

CERTIFIED BY:
DR. MICHAEL POKU-BOANSI ……………………… ………………
(SUPERVISOR) SIGNATURE DATE

CERTIFIED BY:
DR. IMORO BRAIMAH ………………………. ...…………….
(HEAD OF DEPARTMENT) SIGNATURE DATE

ii
 ABSTRACT

Traditional markets in Ghana have played significant functions as the main source for rural
inhabitant’s livelihood and development of rural space. The attractions of population and
economic activities to markets centres have enhanced the growth of communities and attracted
socio-economic facilities. Traditional markets focus mainly on agriculture produce. In spite of
the considerable effort of traditional market towards rural development, it is faced with
numerous challenges.

The study examined the nexus existing between road transportation and traditional markets in the
Upper Manya District and Lower Manya District. The study focused on two traditional markets
namely the Agormanya and Asesewa markets. The study adopted the case study approach and
using data from one hundred and sixty (160) respondents it was observed that the two markets
exhibited characteristics of traditional markets because they trade mainly in agriculture produce.

It is also conspicuous from the study that there is a strong linkage between road transportation
and traditional markets but the two have not been managed effectively and effectively for the
past decade for the realisation of optimal benefit. The study also found out that owing to the poor
nature of roads in the study area, travel speed is low, leading to long travel time and as a result
traders pay high prices for the transportation of goods from the production centres to the markets.

Although these two markets have existed and contributed to rural development for decades, lip-
service has been paid to physical infrastructure improvement and maintenance. In Agormanya,
the market is deficient of a proper drainage system, a school, potable water, storage facilities,
and electricity service for evening transactions and poor linkages for transport service to and
from the market. The situation in Asesewa market is not far from Agormanya market.

In conclusion, the study recommends among others the constructions of roads from highly
dominant agriculture production centres to traditional markets of Asesewa and Agormanya and
the maintenance of major roads linking communities and markets. Market infrastructure must be
given a facelift to enable traditional markets provide the necessary catalyst for improved rural
livelihood and improved agricultural activities to ensure the sustainability of traditional markets.

iii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

God is the foundation of every blessing in our lives. The insight for this work came entirely from
Him.

Special thanks to my parent and my siblings for their deep contribution in my education. I also
appreciate the wisdom and guidance l received from my supervisor, Dr Michael Poku-Boansi.

I am equally grateful to Dr. Frank Arku for is his immense contribution and gentle critique in my
academic endeavour.

My earnest thanks to Mr. Okyere Kwadwo Dennis, Mr. Paul Amoateng and Mr. Emmanuel
Wireko Antwi-Boasiako for their encouragement and contribution.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page

Title Page………………………………………………………………………………………….I

Declaration………………………………………………………………………………………II

Abstract…………………………………………………………………………………………III

Acknowledgement………………………………………………………………………………IV

Table of Content…………………………………………………………………………………V

List of Tables……………………………………………………………………………………IX

List of Figures…………………………………………………………………………………..XI

List of Acronyms………………………………………………………………………………XII

CHAPTER ONE
GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 1

1.2 Problem Statement ................................................................................................................. 2

1.3 Research Questions ................................................................................................................ 3

1.4 Research Goal and Objectives .............................................................................................. 3

1.5 Relevance of the Study ........................................................................................................... 3

1.6 Organisation of Study ............................................................................................................ 4

CHAPTER TWO
THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE OF THE NEXUS BETWEEN TRANSPORTATON
AND TRADITIONAL MARKETS

2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 5

2.2 Overview of Traditional Markets ......................................................................................... 5

2.2.1 Definition of traditional markets ........................................................................................... 5

2.2.2 Historical Perspective of Traditional Markets ...................................................................... 5

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2.2.3 Characteristics of Traditional Markets .................................................................................. 6

2.3 The Role of Traditional Markets in Local Economic Development .................................. 7

2.4 Transportation Development in Ghana ............................................................................... 9

2.5 The Nexus between Transportation and the Development of Traditional Markets ...... 11

2.6 Conceptual Framework ....................................................................................................... 12

2.7 Lessons Learnt ...................................................................................................................... 15

2.8 Summary of Chapter ........................................................................................................... 15

CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 16

3.2 Research Design Framework .............................................................................................. 16

3.3 Scope of the Study ................................................................................................................ 16

3.4 Study Variable and Data Type ............................................................................................... 18

3.5 Data Collection Methods and Tools ....................................................................................... 18

3.5.1 Interview Guide ................................................................................................................... 18

3.5.2 Questionnaire ...................................................................................................................... 19

3.5.3 Physical survey ................................................................................................................... 19

3.6 Sampling ............................................................................................................................... 19

3.6.1 Sample Size determination .................................................................................................. 19

3.6.2 Sampling Techniques .......................................................................................................... 20

3.7 Data Analysis and Presentation .......................................................................................... 20

CHAPTER FOUR
PROFILE OF STUDY AREAS

4.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 22

4.2 Geophysical and Socio-economic Characteristics of Study Areas ................................... 22

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4.2.1 Location and Size ................................................................................................................ 22

4.2.2 Demographic Characteristics .............................................................................................. 25

4.2.3 Economic Characteristics .................................................................................................... 25

4.3 Agriculture Production in the Study Areas ....................................................................... 25

4.3.1 Crop Farming ...................................................................................................................... 25

4.3.2 Live-Stock and Poultry Production ..................................................................................... 27

4.3.3 Fish Farming/Aquaculture .................................................................................................. 27

4.3.4 Marketing of Agricultural Produce ..................................................................................... 28

4.4 The State of Markets in the Study Areas ........................................................................... 28

4.5 The Current State of Transportation in the Study Areas ................................................ 32

4.5.1 Category and Lengths of Roads .......................................................................................... 32

4.5.2 Conditions of Roads ............................................................................................................ 33

4.6 Summary of Chapter ........................................................................................................... 34

CHAPTER FIVE
TRANSPORTATION AND FUNCTIONING OF TRADITIONAL MARKETS

5.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 35

5.2 Functions of the Market ...................................................................................................... 35

5.2.1 Historical Background and Location of the Markets .......................................................... 35

5.2.2 Background of Market Traders ........................................................................................... 37

5.2.3 Facilities in the Market ........................................................................................................ 38

5.2.4 Goods Traded in the Markets .............................................................................................. 39

5.2.5 Origin of Goods .................................................................................................................. 40

5.2.6 Contribution of the Markets to Development ..................................................................... 52

5.3 Transportation of Goods ..................................................................................................... 54

5.3.1 Modes of Transporting Market Goods ................................................................................ 55

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5.4 Effects of Road Conditions on Traditional Markets Development ................................. 56

5.4.1 Transport Cost ..................................................................................................................... 57

5.4.2 Travel Time ......................................................................................................................... 58

5.4.4 Percentage of Transported Goods that Arrive Safely in the Market ................................... 58

5.5 Summary of Chapter ........................................................................................................... 59

CHAPTER SIX
MAJOR FINDINGS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION

6.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 60

6.2 Major Findings ..................................................................................................................... 60

6.2.1 Nature of road transportation service .................................................................................. 60

6.2.2 Characteristics of the markets ............................................................................................. 61

6.2.3 Current state of the Markets ................................................................................................ 61

6.2.4 Contribution of Traditional Markets in Development ........................................................ 61

6.2.5 Transportation and Agricultural Production Centers .......................................................... 62

6.3 Recommendations ................................................................................................................ 63

6.3.1 Institutional Arrangement for the Management of Traditional Markets ............................. 63

6.3.2 Comprehensive Road Development Policies ...................................................................... 63

6.3.3 Improve Market Facilities ................................................................................................... 64

6.4 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................. 64

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 LIST OF TABLES

Table 4.1: Crops Yield (in tonnes) and Land under Cultivation (in hectares) in LMKD ........ 26

Table 4.2: Crops Yield (in tonnes) and Land under Cultivation (in hectares) in UMKD ........ 27

Table 4.3: Market infrastructure and facilities in LMKD ........................................................ 31

Table 4.4: Market infrastructure and facilities in UMKD ....................................................... 31

Table 4.5: Categories and Length of Roads in the Study Areas .............................................. 32

Table 4.6: Summary of Length and Conditions of Road Types in the Study Areas ................ 33

Table 5.1: Ages of Market Traders .......................................................................................... 37

Table 5.2: Gender of Market Traders ....................................................................................... 38

Table 5.3: Number of Years Traded in the Market .................................................................. 38

Table 5.4: Facilities in Agormanya and Asesewa Market ....................................................... 39

Table 5.5: Goods traded in the Markets ................................................................................... 40

Table 5.6: Endogenous Inflow for Asesewa Market ................................................................ 42

Table 5.7: Endogenous Outflow for Asesewa Market ............................................................. 43

Table 5.8: Endogenous Inflow for Agormanya Market ........................................................... 46

Table 5.9: Endogenous Outflow for Agormanya Market ........................................................ 47

Table 5.10: Flow of Commodities into the Asesewa Market (Endogenous Inflow) ................. 51

Table 5.11: Flow of Commodities into the Agormanya Market (Endogenous Inflow) ............. 51

Table 5.12: Production Centres of Staple Crops ........................................................................ 52

Table 5.13: Total Revenue from Asesewa and Agormanya Markets (2008-2010) ................... 53

Table 5.14: Contribution of Asesewa and Agormanya Markets to District’s IGF (2008-2010) 53

Table 5.15: Roads Used by Traders in Asesewa Market ........................................................... 55

Table 5.16: Roads Used by Market Traders in Agormanya Market .......................................... 55

Table 5.17: Roads Used by Buyers in Asesewa Market ............................................................ 56

Table 5.18: Roads Used by Buyers in Agormanya Market ....................................................... 56

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Table 5.19: Reasons for Choice of Roads .................................................................................. 56

Table 5.20: Road Conditions and Transport Cost ...................................................................... 57

Table 5.21: Road Conditions and Travel Time along Major Routes ......................................... 58

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 2.1: Conceptual Framework ............................................................................................ 14

Figure 3.1: Map of Upper Manya Krobo District ....................................................................... 17

Figure 3.2: Map of Lower Manya Krobo District ...................................................................... 17

Figure 4.1: Regional location of LMKD and UMKD in the National Context ......................... 23

Figure 4.2: UMKD and LMKD in the Regional Contexts ......................................................... 24

Figure 4.3: Distribution of Market Facilities in the LMKD ....................................................... 29

Figure 4.6: Distribution of Market Facilities in the UMKD ...................................................... 30

Figure 5.1: Endogenous Inflows for Asesewa Market ................................................................ 50

Figure 5.2: Endogenous Inflows for Agormanya Market……………………………………. 51

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 LIST OF ACRONYMS

DFR - Department of Feeder Roads

IGF - Internally Generated Funds

LMKD - Lower Manya Krobo District

MTDP - Medium term Development Plan

SPSS - Statistical Package for Social Sciences

TCPD - Town and Country Planning Department

UAC - United African Company

UMKD - Upper Manya Krobo District

xii
 CHAPTER ONE
GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction
The principal objective of all the Millennium Development Goals is incorporated in the first:
eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. Africa’s extensive rural areas contain the continent’s
greatest poverty concentrations of hunger and poverty (Baba-Moussa 2005). Nevertheless, they
also offer the greatest potential for near-term growth, through increased agricultural production
and processing. Unlocking these potentials requires rural transport infrastructure adequately
maintained to permit farmers to obtain inputs and information at reasonable cost and sell their
output at realistic prices to cover their overall cost at traditional markets.

A high quality and well- managed transportation system ensures a smooth flow of goods and
services. Such a system to some extent alleviates the adverse effects of spatial inequity. The
major mode of movement of goods within the region of the study is by road transportation which
facilitates inter and intra-regional movement of passengers and goods to traditional markets.
Traditional markets are trade arrangements in rural commodities where both agricultural and
manufactured goods are assembled for sale. Most traditional markets in Ghana have not been
able to perform to expectation because of poor accessibility and under-developed infrastructure
resulting into poor human and commodity flow to market places. Typical of these are the
Agormanya, Asesewa, Odumasi and Nuaso traditional markets.

Any spatial economic and social wellbeing depends largely on the performance of its
transportation service system. Not only does the transportation system provide opportunities for
the mobility of people and goods, also over the long term, it influences patterns of growth and
the level of economic activity through the accessibility it provides to land (Meyer and Miller
2001).

In recent years, many public officials have treated changes to transportation systems as a means
of meeting the variety of national and community objectives. Transport services are the outlet
through which people living in rural and small villages obtain access to services, facilities,
infrastructure and economic activities located in rural areas and towns.

1
The most important linkages for the rural economy are market networks through which
commodities, raw materials and manufactured products flow. Through these, rural people receive
many of their inputs needed to increase agricultural activities and market the goods they produce
which leads to expansion of market linkages, commercialization of agricultural, diversify
livelihood and expanding the spatial exchange.

1.2 Problem Statement

For a long time, the traditional markets in Ghana have played important roles for local
inhabitants for the purchase of their foods and other daily goods. Notable amongst them are the
Techiman and Wenchi Markets in the Brong-Ahafo Region, the Akatsi Market in the Volta
Region, and the Asesewa and Agormanya Markets in the Eastern Region. The existence of the
traditional markets as a formal transaction place with their own unique characteristics, a wide
range of merchandises especially for agricultural products, and a face-to-face transaction, has
direct relationship with history, culture, social interaction of the settlements in which these
markets existed. Thus, in Asesewa and Agormanya, the existence of the traditional markets is
inseparable with their growth and development, and for the survival of the rural people.
Certainly, they have an impact on agricultural production and other daily products for local
inhabitants.

In spite of these, however, the major challenge threatening the functionality and sustainability of
these markets is poor accessibility; especially, from agricultural production centres to the
markets. A preliminary survey undertaken showed that, the main roads linking agricultural
producing centres to these markets are unmotorable especially in the rainy seasons. In essence, it
will lead to increase in post-harvest food losses.

The problem of transportation has further affected the satisfactory functioning of traditional
markets in the study areas, which is evident in the decline of socio-economic development and
poor interaction of activities in space, which has consequently affected the revenue mobilisation
capacity of the market, sustainability of the markets and the general living conditions of the rural
people.

2
1.3 Research Questions
In trying to understand the relationship between transportation and traditional markets
development, the following questions must be addressed:
1. What is the nature of transportation in the study areas?
2. What is the proportion of agricultural output that ends up in the market?
3. What are the characteristics of the Asesewa and Agormanya markets in terms of
physical/spatial and the type of commodities traded?
4. What is the current state of the Asesewa and Agormanya traditional markets?
5. Has the markets contributed to the development of the Asesewa and Agormanya
townships?

1.4 Research Goal and Objectives

The main goal of this study is to examine the role of transportation service in the development of
traditional markets. Specifically, the study seeks to achieve the following objectives:
1. To identify and examine the nature of transportation service;
2. To examine the stimulus of transportation on agricultural production centres;
3. To assess the physical characteristics of markets in Asesewa and Agormanya and type of
commodities traded;
4. To examine the current state of the Asesewa and Agormanya Markets.
5. To examine the contribution of the traditional markets in the growth and development of
the study areas.

1.5 Relevance of the Study

The study of road transportation and traditional markets is very critical in any country’s
development agenda. Transportation and traditional markets are responsive development issues
which have not been given the needed attention. The study therefore presents a logical standpoint
to understand the link between transportation service and development of traditional markets.

Secondly, the Asesewa and the Agormanya townships in the context of the Upper and Lower
Manya Krobo Districts play a significant role as the commercial hub and a centre well noted for
revenue mobilizations from traditional markets. The markets have a potential of contributing
significantly to the socio-economic development of the entire region. This study therefore, will

3
provide insights to the selected areas, and examine whether this role is being optimized by the
District Assemblies. This will create the platform to devise suitable measures to aid in the
development aspirations of these areas in particular and the development of the nation in general.

The study will also assist local authorities and other development actors to recognize the
influence of traditional markets of communities, prioritization of roads construction and
maintenance in their decision making process. This will aid them on how to utilise scarce
resources on spatial development to propel the needed socio-economic development for the study
areas.

Finally, the findings of this study would serve as a basis for future research work on the
interrelationship between transportation and traditional markets, and add to the universal body of
knowledge.

1.6 Organisation of Study

The study is organised into six chapters. Chapter One shows introduction to the study, problem
statement, research questions, objectives and importance of the study. Chapter Two provides the
theoretical understanding of the nexus between transportation service and traditional market
development.

Chapter Three describes the approaches and methods used in this research. The gist of the
research is presented in Chapter Four. It applies the intellectual understanding expressed in the
literature review, to analyse the relationship between transport and traditional markets using data
from fieldwork survey, interviews and field observation. Analysis of transportation and
functioning of traditional markets are presented in Chapter Five. Chapter Six entails the major
findings and recommendations of the research.

4
 CHAPTER TWO
THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE OF THE NEXUS BETWEEN TRANSPORTATON
AND TRADITIONAL MARKETS

2.1 Introduction
This chapter throws more light on the basic concept of the research. The literature overview of
transportation and traditional markets will involve extensive reading in areas which are either
directly or indirectly related to the topic of the study. It is aimed to identify relevant information
on the subject matter of study, which is already known and present theoretical framework for the
present as well as future research. The central issues examined are: Overview of traditional
markets in Ghana; Local Economic Development; Transport development in Ghana; Role of
transport in development of traditional markets; Lessons learnt; Conceptual framework; and
Summary.

2.2 Overview of Traditional Markets

2.2.1 Definition of traditional markets

Traditional markets have been given various descriptions by different authorities. Although rural
markets have some similarities in characteristics, they vary in relation to their spatial location
and cultures. According to Tumbua et al (2006), traditional market is community square where
traders set up stalls and buyers browse the merchandise.

Some traditional markets are operational for two days a week and others are open every day of
the week. In terms of operations, traditional markets do function on some specific days of the
week at a specific location with set up stalls to facilitate sales and better display of goods for
buyers. Agricultural produce dominates manufactured items among commodities put up for sale.

2.2.2 Historical Perspective of Traditional Markets

The evolution of traditional markets marks a landmark in the history of its location. The
establishment of traditional market is linked with agricultural activities in the area, the demand
for agricultural produce of the area by other people, transport and the desire to obtain through the
medium of purchase commodities which they are incapable of producing (Addo, 1988). This
means that communities of traditional markets specialise in commodities they had advantage and

5
exchange with commodities they are less advantaged, especially manufactured goods. The
choice of site for a market is also influenced by the distribution of the farming population and the
convergence of routes at the market place (accessibility). In summary, the markets are
established at the centres of zones of greatest agricultural activity with high accessibility.

Manado city of Indonesia is one of the areas that has experienced the evolution of a traditional
market. The traditional market occupied a very vital role in its formative stages. Traditional
markets in Manado bay has been recorded as a transaction place for people from Spain, Portugal
and Holland with the local people (Tumbua et al, 2006). This interaction has led to the
establishment of numerous traditional markets in other areas due to realization of the benefits
Manado traditional market has introduced into their economy.

In Ghana, Techiman's history as a trading centre began in the fifteenth century when it served as
a relay point on the trans-Saharan trade route. In 1946, under the sponsorship of the local
traditional chief, the Techiman market was formalized in its present size and location (Techiman
District Council, 1990). The traditional market's success in the past to date has been due, in part,
to location factors, a steady supply of and demand for the market's products from neighbouring
towns, regions and countries and support from local political institutions. The market is now a
very strong force in terms of development of its territory and peripheral communities through
revenue mobilization.

2.2.3 Characteristics of Traditional Markets

Traditional markets have numerous characteristics which span from spatial, variety of
commodities; operational days and gender dominance which makes them distinct. The
characteristics sometimes differ based on the spatial location and the culture of the inhabitants.

In the perspective of commodities, traditional markets assemble a wide range of commodities

which are exchanged in monetary terms. In Ghana at the Techiman market, the most important
commodities traded in are yams, plantains, corn, second-hand clothes, dried fish, groundnuts,
cassava and so on. In Techiman, traders work from stalls and tables with thatch including some
sellers of groundnut paste, dried fish, plantains, yams and clothes (Ameyaw, 1990).

In Manado City of Indonesia, most commonly found in the markets are horticultural produce
such as fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers, freshly slaughtered meat, fresh and dried fish, dry
6
foods including grains, cooked food, non-perishable consumer goods and utensils and, most
commonly, heterogeneous market trading in wide range of goods.

In terms of operational days, there is some trading every day of the week. However, the official
market days are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at Techiman market. They are clearly the
busiest with the peak of activity on Thursdays (Nezic and Kerr, 1996). In order to attract
patronage to periodic market, care is taken in choice of market days. The most important
consideration is that large traditional markets close to each other do not function on the same
days while smaller ones do function on daily bases. This idea is to make patronage of the large
markets very high and to prevent the popularity of a particular market from collapsing other
ones.

From the spatial standpoint, rural traders from near and far communities, mostly dominate the
markets. Thus, the market provides economic activities that affect or influence very large areas
of both rural and urban settings.

Addo (1988) emphasised that the markets are also fenced which demarcates the market place
from the settlement and the assemblage of similar commodities in particular sections of the
markets. The markets are also mostly located in the centre of the communities of traditional
market (Ameyaw, 1990). This strategic location serves as the nexus of growth for these
communities. In the area of gender dominance in traditional markets, it is skewed. According to
Ameyaw (1990), about 98% of market participants are women, most of whom are mothers. This
is indicative of the fact that females dominate in trading activities of these markets.

2.3 The Role of Traditional Markets in Local Economic Development

Traditional markets play a lot of purpose in the development of people and space. Traditional
market as an economic institution has contributed immensely to local economic development in
diverse ways through revenue mobilization, attraction of additional functions due to
concentration of activities, support in the sustainability of urban markets and livelihood in both
rural and urban setting.

Traditional market has influenced the urbanization process of many market communities. The
best documented example of a market settlement which emerged as a town in 1928 by virtue of
concentration of numerous services and official government recognition was Bisa (Gold Coast

7
Gazette, 9128). This feat was as a result of the attraction of population and socio-economic
activities to Bisa due to the vibrant nature of the traditional market.

The existence of traditional markets is inseparable from the formation of Manado City of
Indonesia three hundred and eighty two (382) years ago (Tumbua et al, 2006). This development
progress did occur due to Manado’s ability to attract additional population, which further
attracted other social and economic activities thus compelling responsible authorities to raise its
status to capital City of North Sulawesi Province in Indonesia.

Traditional markets also perform social and economic functions as well as serving as places for
the profitable disposal of agricultural produce and provides an avenue through which the local
people purchase the required manufactured goods. Agricultural producers also take advantage of
these markets to sell their produce. The agricultural produce serves both rural and urban markets.

Owing to the node of the markets in Krobo during pre-1952, the villagers through communal
labour and much encouragement from the Government managed to construct feeder roads to link
their villages with the market centres. According to Addo, (1988) the constructed feeder roads
linked their “huza” (a large area occupied by different clans within a village) with the markets.
The central government improved these feeder roads considerably after 1966 which enhanced the
effective interaction of activities in their communities and the market. Before 1952, most of the
functioning markets centres formed the termini of roads. These networks of motorable roads,
since that time have added other functions to the communities because of the accessibility of the
area to other settlements. The growth in additional functions consequently affected the
community and its neighbouring communities positively in their social and economic activities.

According to Nezic and Kerr (1996) increased market activity can contribute to local prosperity
and increase tax revenues for community development. The users of these traditional markets
contribute tolls in the form of tax. This contribution is used in the development of the markets
and the community at large. In Manado City in Indonesia, traditional market users also pay
market fee (Tumbua et. al, 2006). This revenue is used for upgrading of the market to meet
current situations.

8
2.4 Transportation Development in Ghana
The Gold Coast had to wait for nearly half a century after the Legislative Council decided not to
build any good roads before she was blessed with a Governor whose views on infrastructural
development were broader and focused on the general development of the country for the benefit
of both his majesty's government and the people of the Gold Coast. Governor Gordon
Guggisberg refused to yield to pressure from the Advisory Council to postpone the construction
of Takoradi harbour in the face of threatening economic slump in 1922. Wraith (1967) cited by
Addo (1995) writes that Guggisberg was convinced the best approach to an economic slum was
to build for the future when prosperity should have revived but not to sit aloof under adversity.

Guggisberg contributed to the development of the railways by bringing certain urgency and drive
upon it and by formulating a more coherent policy, which sought to make road and rail
complement each other. Wraith (1967) cited in Addo (1995) further stated that Guggisberg even
reversed Clifford's policy and prepared plans for the extension of the railway into the Northern
Territories. It must be recalled that Governor Clifford, in framing an economic policy, had
requested for what amounted to a virtual abandonment of the North for an indefinite period.
Administration cost was to be cut down to the barest minimum and attention concentrated on the
potentially more prosperous, areas of the Colony and Ashanti.

According to Dickson (1969), the Legislative Council of the Gold Coast, on 30th September,
1870 in its quest to reduce investment to a minimum level in the Gold Coast assigned the
following reasons among others for failing to build good roads:
i. They asserted that the few good roads constructed for experiment purpose deteriorated
with amazing rapidity and therefore found no relevance of constructing more;
ii. Before experimental and costly roads were built in the countryside, the streets and roads
in the towns should first be put in proper state of repair;
iii. There would be no vehicles to travel on the roads when constructed; and
iv. Finally, they concluded that the African preferred head loading to wheeled transport on
the basis that nature has endowed them with strong neck and muscles, such as no other
men possess, and therefore must use this power in preference to any other.

9
The above reasons were given by the colonial master to justify least investment in infrastructure
development in the Gold Coast. The actual development of the colony was of lesser importance.
The infrastructural development which took place in the field of transportation almost three
decades after the utterance of these views confirms the conclusion spelt out above. The railways
were built purposely to help exploit the mineral and other natural resources of the country for the
benefit of a metropolitan power.

The Gold Coast had to wait for nearly half a century after the Legislative Council decided not to
build any good roads before Governor Gordon Guggisberg whose views on infrastructural
development was focused on the general development of the country for the benefit of both the
colonial master and the people of the Gold Coast (Addo, 1995).

As noticeably acknowledged by Wraith (1967), the full comprehension of the contribution of Sir
Gordon Guggisberg to the development of the colonial transportation systems of this country can
best be done within the framework of his Ten year Development Plan.

Busia’s government lasted from 1969-1972 but a major element of his administration was the
vibrant rural development programme pursued which depended heavily on the improvement in
accessibility to most productivity rural areas of the country (Addo 1988). Aryertey et. al (2000),
have argued that under that theme of increasing self- reliance, the Busia Government embarked
on the comprehensive rural development programme after 1970, placing more emphasis on the
economic services, especially feeder road construction. While one can recognize the very strong
points in the transport development programmes since the Guggisberg era, none of the
governments ever gave thought to a widespread national integrated transport plan which could
have been executed in phases over a given period.

The greatest harm ever inflicted on the overland transport system of this country occurred during
the Acheampong’s period of governance (1972-1978). It was during this period that articulators
were introduced in this country without regarding whatsoever the nature of the already existing
fragile road network and axle-load capacity of the newly introduced vehicles. The result was that
they damaged the roads and took away most of the traditional freight of the railways. According
to Addo (1975), the railways needed rehabilitation to stay alive but their call for assistance fell

10
on deaf partly because the articulators were performing a sizeable portion of their duties, at a
greater cost though.

According to Addo (1988) and La Anyane (1962), the construction and maintenance of the
feeder roads became a major priority. In Manya Krobo in the Eastern Region noted then as a
food basket of the country, this exercise was carried out almost to perfection. Agricultural
produce from Asesewa market in particular travelled not only to Koforidua and Accra but also to
Sekondi –Takoradi, Kumasi, Tamale and Bolgatanga.

Addo (1995) in his recommendation called upon the Government to establish a national
transportation commission which serves in an advisory capacity. Its immediate task must be the
submission of proposal for the formulation of a national transportation development policy and
plan. Thereafter the commission should be charged with monitoring implementation of the plan
and offering suggestions as and when necessary in the fields of integration of the overall system
and the performance of the individual modes. In view of present developments the envisaged
national transport planning commission can be a sub-set of the National Development Planning
Commission.

2.5 The Nexus between Transportation and the Development of Traditional Markets
Transportation represents one of the most important human activities. It is an indispensable
component of any economy, and plays a major role in spatial relations between locations.
Transport creates valuable links between regions and economic activities, between people and
the rest of the world.

Owen (1964) also makes a case for transportation as the key to national development because the
widening of domestic markets is essential for growth. This reveals the fact that traditional
markets are very sensitive elements in the upward movement of any economy thriving for
growth. Owen in his assertion also stated categorically that transport plays a major role in the
expansion of traditional markets to propel the necessary growth in any economy.

According to La Anyane (1962), Manya Krobo is one district (now Upper and Lower Manya
districts) in Ghana which has continuously supplied the major urban centres of this country
(including Accra, Takoradi, Kumasi, Tamale and Bolgatanga) with foodstuffs from colonial
times to the late seventies. This feat was made possible because of road transportation as the

11
driving force. It enabled traders to move from different geographical areas everywhere to
purchase goods for resale or for housekeep and movement of goods from agricultural production
centres to market for sale.

Hoyle and Smith (1992), also assert that transport is an epitome of the complex relationships that
exist between the physical environment patterns, social and political activity and levels of
economic development. It can be assumed that, transportation serves as the nexus for economic
activities in space. In this case rural communities can only have their share of this economic
development through linkages of transport to traditional markets which is the growth centre of
their economy.

Baba-Moussa (2005), also noted clearly that the factors that make rural road extensions and
improvement such high priority investments at early stages of intensified rural development
efforts are best demonstrated by microeconomic research. They are particularly connected with
the need to reduce farmer’s transaction costs in order to provide incentives sufficient to induce
sustained shift from subsistence cultivation to commercial production, with increasing use of
inputs that can raise yields, labour productivity and incomes. This will consequently lead to low
prices of agricultural goods at traditional market that will enhance or reduce cost of living of
both rural and urban population.

According to Addo (2002), at the local level, area chief farmers led a crusade for the construction
of numerous feeder roads linking agriculturally productive areas with centrally located wholesale
markets (large traditional markets) which were effectively linked to district and regional capitals.
This clearly shows the enormous relevance attached to road transport in quest to develop
linkages between communities and local markets.

In a self-centred development, rural roads should form the backdrop against which the
improvement of the rural markets must be seen. The frequent neglect of road transport in the
scheme of things has been in part responsible for the backwardness of the traditional markets,
traditional markets communities and peripheral communities.

2.6 Conceptual Framework

As depicted by Figure 1, poor road transportation system has direct impact on traders, farmers
and buyers of traditional markets. From the side of farmers, poor transportation affects effective
12
carriage of goods to the markets, increasing transportation cost and pricing of goods leading to
reduction in the quantity of goods to the market. It further affects the function of the market
causing reduction in traders’ income and revenue of the Districts Assemblies. For buyers the
increase in travel time leading to increase in fares is enough a disincentive to trading in the
market, which negatively affects the effective function of the markets leading to decrease in
revenue for the District Assemblies. Market traders who buy produce directly from the farmers
also have trouble in conveying goods to the markets. These problems generated by poor road
transportation system emerge at a point which retards socio-economic development.

13
Figure 2.1: Conceptual Framework

POOR ROAD TRANSPORTATION

Producers Buyers
SYSTEM

Market Traders

Affect Carriage of Goods Inability to Convey Increase Travel Time to

from Production Centers Goods to the Markets Market Centres for Buyers
to the Markets

Increase Transportation Cost Loss of Perishable Increase Travel Fares to

and the Pricing of Farm Goods the Markets
Produce to Markets

Decrease the Quantity of Disincentive to Buyers

Produce to be available in trading in the Markets
the Markets

Affect the Functioning

of the Markets
Negatively

Decrease in Income of Decrease Revenue to the

Market Traders and District Assembly
Farmers

Scarcity of Funds for

Maintenance of Roads

Deteriorated Roads

Retard the Socio-economic

Development of the District

Source: Author’s Construct, 2011

14
2.7 Lessons Learnt
From reviewed literature it has come to the realization that traditional markets are predominantly
in rural areas and play sensitive role in rural economy and urban survival. The dynamic nature of
these traditional markets draws additional population, which attracts socio-economic activities
and other functions into market communities. These functions in localities gradually grow
villages into small towns. It is also definite that these markets serve as important source of
revenue, which is used to undertake development projects for the benefits of the populace. They
also serve as the source of livelihood for rural people, agricultural producers and a source of
supply of food for both rural and urban locations. Indigenous and external collaboration
(development actors and community effort) also emerge in traditional market communities in
their attempt to improve accessibility to markets.

Notwithstanding this exciting feat of traditional markets it was revealed that they are faced
predominantly with problem of road transportation. This problem has persisted over the decades
leading to the decline of effective function of the markets, ineffectiveness in the movement of
buyers and goods from agricultural production point to the markets. This has resulted in a decline
in growth of the market areas of operation and peripheral communities, thus affecting the
livelihood of the mass inhabitant in traditional markets territories and beyond.

2.8 Summary of Chapter

This section has highlight on literature reviewed on problem to be investigated. It focused
essentially on the overview of traditional markets comprising definitions, historical perspective
and characteristics. The position of traditional markets in improving indigenous socio-economic
environment is also discussed. It has become known that traditional markets served as a
livelihood in rural areas and growth of location due to the attraction of additional functions.
Transportation development in Ghana also revealed that transportation although a catalyst for
development; has not received the needed national attention to propel the nation’s development
agenda. It is also concluded that traditional markets have strong link with transportation. This is
visible in the movement of buyers and produce from agricultural production centres to markets,
which determine the functionality of markets. The next chapter throws more light on the
procedure to be followed in conducting this research.

15
 CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction
The discussion presented in this chapter covers the methods by which data for the study were
obtained and analysed. While the study makes use of both primary and secondary data, the
chapter concentrates on the means of obtaining primary data from the study areas. It elaborates
on the design framework, research scope, data type and sources, sampling procedures and data
collection methods, data analyses and presentation. These will be necessary to test the research
questions that form the focus of the study.

3.2 Research Design Framework

The research design adopted was the case study approach. This is because the study tried to
understand the dynamics and nexus between transportation services and traditional markets
developments in the Upper Manya and Lower Manya Krobo Districts, which is a major feature
of the case study approach to research. The issues discussed are similar to other geographical
areas therefore outcome of this research can be replicated in any space to enhance the effective
operation of traditional markets.

3.3 Scope of the Study

The Asesewa and Agormanya Markets in the Upper and Lower Manya Krobo Districts in the
Eastern Region of Ghana provided the test ground for the study. Geographically, the Upper and
Lower Manya Districts are bounded to the north by Afram Plains District, to the east by
Asuogyaman, to the west by Fanteakwa and Yilo Krobo Districts, and to the south by Dangme
District (see Figure 3.1 and Figure 3.2). The selection of the Asesewa and the Agomanya
Markets in these districts was influenced by their accomplishment and affluence in the past, and
the unfortunate current decline in their role towards the development agenda of Ghana.

16
 Figure 3.1: Map of Upper Manya Krobo District Figure 3.2: Map of Lower Manya Krobo District

Source: Town and Country Planning Dep’t, UMKD, 2011. Source: Town and Country Planning Department, LMKD, 2011.

17
Contextually, the study focused on the interrelationship between transportation services and
traditional markets development. The specific issues discussed in this regard are:
i. The conditions of roads in the districts, especially from agricultural production
centres to the markets;
ii. The influence of transportation service on the development of traditional markets;
iii. The problems faced by agricultural producers and the market traders in the
transportation and the selling of goods in the markets respectively; and
iv. Proposed policy measures to help address transportation challenges vis-à-vis
traditional markets in the study area.

3.4 Study Variable and Data Type

Data for the research were based on primary and secondary sources. The data types for the
research were on the traditional markets and transportation. The variables for the research were
price for transport services, marketed goods, and condition of roads, origin and destination of
goods as well as quality and quantity of market infrastructure. Data were collected from both
published and unpublished information from Upper and Lower Manya Districts and the regional
level.

3.5 Data Collection Methods and Tools

Relevant information for this study was obtained from both primary and secondary sources. A
combination of questionnaires and interview guide were used to solicit for the primary data.
Questionnaires were, however, the major data collection tool with face- to- face interviews used
to augment or solicit explanations and additional information. The importance of using
questionnaires is to help obtain first-hand information as well as reach out to a variety of
respondents. Secondary sources of data such as periodicals, reports, publications and
unpublished thesis were used to supplement the primary data.

3.5.1 Interview Guide

The market queens and officials, including non- officials of the study areas, and heads of the
selected institutions of Town and Country Planning Department (TCPD); Department of Feeder
Roads (DFR); Budget and Finance Department; and Market Traders Association were
interviewed to gain more insight on the issues regarding problems faced by the markets in

18
relation to transportation. Some of the issues discussed were the problems of moving goods from
production points to the market, facilities at the markets, history of the markets and suggestions
to make the markets more productive among others.

3.5.2 Questionnaire
Questionnaires were used to collect data from the registered market traders in the markets, the
transport service providers, especially the cargo drivers, and the agricultural producers at their
production centres. Some of the issues discussed are roads used by agricultural producers and
traders, conditions of road used, goods usually traded, origin and destination of commodities,
how conditions of roads have influenced prices of goods, contributions of the markets to the
District Assembly’s among others.

3.5.3 Physical survey

Observation was used to take inventory of physical characteristics of the markets, road
conditions and its effects on the markets. This was guided by a well prepared observational chart.
Some of the physical features observed are facilities at the markets such as drainage, potable
water, toilet facility, parking space, conditions of the roads used among others.

3.6 Sampling
3.6.1 Sample Size determination
The selection of respondents for the interview was based on a well- defined sampling procedure.
Sample frames for the categories of respondents were determined for the appropriate selection of
the sample sizes. The statistical sampling method adopted is given as:

n = N/ (1 + N (α) ²)

Calculation of sample size for Agormanya market

N = 450;
n = Sample Size;
1 = 1; and
α = 0.1 (90% confidence interval)
n = 82 (sample size of Agormanya)

19
Calculation of sample size for Asesewa market
N = 350;
n = Sample Size;
1 = 1; and
α = 0.1(90% confidence interval)
n = 78 (sample size of Asesewa market)

In all, three hundred and fifty (350) and four hundred and fifty (450) traders are registered at the
Asesewa and Agormanya markets respectively. Using 450 and 350 as sample frames, the number
of respondents interviewed was, 82 for Agormanya market 78 for Asesewa market and four
heads of institutions. In addition, to ensure data triangulation, 20 buyers were sampled
accidentally, from both markets.

3.6.2 Sampling Techniques

Though the issue of transport and its effects on market development affect the operations of
several institutions and organizations within the Upper and Lower Manya Districts, four
institutions were considered to be directly and greatly affected. Purposive sampling technique
was used to collect data from institutions. This technique was preferable because the institutions
were consciously selected due to their thorough knowledge in the subject matter of study. The
four institutions below were selected since their activities and the markets activities have mutual
effect.

i. Town and Country Planning Department;

ii. Department of Feeder Roads;
iii. The Budget and Finance Department; and
iv. The Market Traders Association.

Interview was used in validating the responses from the institutional survey, market traders and
agricultural producers within the study areas. The study utilized accidental sampling technique in
the selection of the agricultural producers and traders.

3.7 Data Analysis and Presentation

The data were analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Quantitatively, the data was
collated and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The responses for
20
the various questions in the questionnaire were coded, and their frequencies, percentages, and
other descriptive statistics were discussed. Also, inferences were drawn from journals and other
policy documents such as the medium term development plans of the Districts.

21
 CHAPTER FOUR
PROFILE OF STUDY AREAS
4.1 Introduction

To enhance a better understanding of the study areas, this chapter has been designed to describe
the current situation of the two districts under study within the context of the research’s subject
matter.

4.2 Geophysical and Socio-economic Characteristics of Study Areas

4.2.1 Location and Size

The Lower Manya Krobo District (LMKD) is located at the eastern corner of the Eastern Region
of Ghana and lies between latitudes -6.2-6.50N and longitudes -0.3 - 0.00 W of the Greenwich
Meridian and an altitude of 457.5m above sea level as the district shares boundaries with Upper
Manya Krobo District, Asuogyaman District, Tongu District and Yilo and Dangme West
Districts to the north-west, north-east, south-east and the south respectively. The LMKD covers
an area of 591 square kilometers constituting about 3.28% of the total land area of the Eastern
Region of Ghana (18,310km). The district capital, Odumase-Krobo is about 45 minutes’ drive
from Koforidua, the regional capital of Eastern Region and 60 minutes’ drive from Accra, the
capital city of Ghana.

The Upper Manya Krobo District (UMKD) on the other hand is located at the north-eastern
corner of the Eastern Region of Ghana and lies between latitudes -6.2-6.50N and longitudes -0.3 -
0.00 W of the Greenwich Meridian and altitude of 457.5m above sea level. The capital of the
district is Asesewa which is about 45 minutes’ drive from Koforidua, the regional capital of
Eastern Region and 125 minutes’ drive from Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Afram Plains
District, Lower Manya Krobo Districts, Asuogyaman District and Fanteakwa District border the
District to the north, south, east and west respectively. The UMKD covers an area of 885 square
kilometers constituting about 4.8% of the total land area of the Eastern Region of Ghana
(18,310km).

The unique location of the two districts places them at a strategic position making them quickest
points of call between the northern and southern parts of the eastern corridor of Ghana. This
through Odumase, Juapong, Hohoe, Kpasah or Damanko with an easy link through Bimbila to

22
Tamale in the Northern Region and to other parts of Ghana and Togo in LMKD and Nkawkaw to
Kumasi in the Ashanti Region and to other northern parts of Ghana in the UMKD. The
geographic locations of the districts in national and regional as well as the location of the
selected communities in the district context are shown in the Figures 4.1 and 4.2.

Figure 4.1: Regional location of LMKD and UMKD in the National Context

Source: Ghana Statistical Service, 2009

23
Figure 4.2: UMKD and LMKD in the Regional Contexts

Source: UMKD, 2011

24
4.2.2 Demographic Characteristics
According to the 2000 Population and Housing Census the then Manya Krobo District which
comprised of the UMKD and LMKD had a population size of 154,301. This comprised 76,070
males (49.30%) and 78,231 females (50.70%). The census indicated an annual growth rate of
2.8% for the district. However, the estimated population of UMKD and LMKD as at 2000 stood
at 89,646 and 64,655 respectively. The projected population and annual growth rates of UMKD
and LMKD as at 2010 are 100,046 and 80,278 and 2.8 % and 2.9% respectively. The population
of both UMKD and LMKD is generally youthful constituting 57.91% and 55.72% of the
population of the districts respectively. This indicates the availability of labour force for
undertaking economic activities to promote the growth and development of the districts.

4.2.3 Economic Characteristics

The economy of LMKD is dominated by agriculture with commerce and industrial sectors least
developed. Agriculture accounts for about 80% of the District labour force, commerce accounts
for about 12%, while industry and other sectors account for about 8%. Similarly, the people of
UMKD are predominantly farmers with about 10% of the population engaged in trading, 80% in
agricultural production representing fishing, animal husbandry, crops farming, fruits and citrus
cultivation. The remaining 10% are engaged in industrial and service activities. The above
reveals that agriculture is the mainstay of the economy of both districts. However, it is mainly
undertaken on subsistence basis due to limited capital and the lack of credit facilities.

4.3 Agriculture Production in the Study Areas

As observed in the country as a whole, agriculture is the mainstay of the economy of both
UMKD and LMKD. The main agricultural activities carried out in the two districts are farming
(crop farming), with quite a significant proportion of the people engaged in fishing and livestock
rearing.

4.3.1 Crop Farming

The total land under cultivation in UMKD and LMKD is about 7.3 hectares and 6.5 hectares
respectively. The main crops grown in the districts include cassava, maize, plantain, legume and
vegetables. Mixed cropping is a common feature among the farmers in the districts. This is
largely because crops grown are suitable to be inter-cropped with others. The cultivation of
industrial or cash crops in the district is on a small scale. The principal industrial crops grown in

25
the district include cocoa, oil palm, soya beans, groundnuts and tomatoes. Generally, farming in
both districts is still at a primary stage of development or subsistence level with average farm
size of 3.5 acres and 4 acres in LMKD and UMKD respectively. Agricultural production in the
districts is thus characterized by use of rudimentary implements. The main implements used for
farming include cutlasses and hoes.

Although both districts are endowed with large expanse of water resources irrigation by any form
is not practiced and hence the people still practice rain fed agriculture. This is largely due to the
absence of irrigation equipment and partly due to limited knowledge of farmers on irrigation
development. Steps therefore need to be taken to enhance irrigation development at Akateng-
Manya, Akotoe, Agajajetey and Anyaboni Dzogbe environs etc in UMKD and at Akuse in
LMKD. Table 4.1 presents the output levels and size of farms in the two districts.

Table 4.1: Crops Yield (in tonnes) and Land under Cultivation (in hectares) in LMKD
Year/ 2007 2008 2009

Crop Crop Yield Land Crop Yield Land Crop Yield Land
Area Area Area
Maize 18,907 23,755 23,290 29,110 22,120 27,650
Cassava 101,568 8,830 113,050 9,830 107,800 9,800

Plantain 2,415 3,425 23,970 3,420 25,310 3,590

Cocoyam 23,965 10,830 2,410 5,820 2,494 6,101

Vegetables 9,453 1,615 9,450 1,620 9,653 1,650

Source: LMKD MTDP, 2010-2013

26
Table 4.2: Crops Yield (in tonnes) and Land under Cultivation (in hectares) in UMKD
Year/ 2007 2008 2009

Crop Crop Yield Land Crop Yield Land Crop Yield Land
Area Area Area
Maize 32,198 24,473 35,321 27,130 35,978 27,271
Cassava 158,004 7,980 147,145 8,740 168,634 10,741

Plantain 28,007 4,598 24,881 3,120 27,450 3,732

Cocoyam 25,795 8,645 20,385 8,203 18,327 6,221

Vegetables 50,847 2,011 47,087 1,736 50,358 1,890

Source: UMKD MTDP, 2010-2013

4.3.2 Live-Stock and Poultry Production

It is a common phenomenon in both districts that, almost all households keep live stock or
poultry mostly on free range basis. Types of animals kept are fowls, goats and sheep are reared
on a limited scale. Livestock and poultry are not kept for commercial purposes but as a shock
absorber against poverty and it needs to be reversed to encourage commercial livestock farming
like grass-cutter farming etc. Due to the districts’ proximity to Accra and Koforidua the nation’s
capital and regional capital, respectively there is a ready market for livestock production.

4.3.3 Fish Farming/Aquaculture

Fishing is an important agricultural activity of the people in the two districts especially those
who live along the Volta Lake. About 80,000 fishermen and 20,000 fish processors and traders
are engaged in the Lake Volta fishery in the both LMKD and UMKD. The fishing gears used is
cast and gill nets, hook-and line, and traps. Various types of fresh water fish harvested include
tilapia, mudfish, “gear box” and tug fish among others. About 50 metric tonnes and 65 metric
tonnes of fish are produced through aquaculture in LMKD and UMKD annually respectively.
The fishes harvested are normally smoked and some salted into salted fish (used as flavour in
soup). Both salted and smoked fish are normally sold in the local markets to resident buyers who
use it locally. A large chunk of the locally processed fish is sold out to market women from
other districts and surrounding regions. Trade in fishing in the districts has become such an

27
important business. The major problem with fish farming in both districts is the absence of
storage facilities, which results in the rotting of fish when there is bumper harvest as well as lack
of financial support from government.

4.3.4 Marketing of Agricultural Produce

All the farmers in the two districts lack access to appropriate storage facilities and this leads to
high post-harvest losses. Owing to this, most farmers prefer selling their produce at give-away
prices immediately after harvest. The bulk of agricultural produce is sold unprocessed as there
are few agro-processing industries in both districts. Most of the farmers in UMKD sell their
produce in the major markets of Asesewa, Akateng and Sekesua among others. In addition, most
of the farmers in LMKD sell their produce in the major market at Agormanya. However the
roads leading to most of these market centres in both districts are in deplorable conditions.
However, the Asesewa market in UMKD, can boast of good road from the regional capital but
deficient of adequate storage facility and shelter.

4.4 The State of Markets in the Study Areas

There is available market infrastructure in the two districts where periodic buying and selling
takes place. The types of markets available in the two districts are weekly and daily markets
(Refer to Tables 4.3 and 4.4 for the details of markets in LMKD and UMKD).

It is only the Agormanya Market in LMKD that has permanent market stores and stalls and thus
serves as the commercial hub of the district. Apart from the Agormanya Market all the other
markets function as daily markets and they are located at Atua, Ako, Tsonya, Akuse, Mampong
Akwenor, Manya Kpongunor, Kpong, Laasi and Asitey all in the LMKD (see Figure 4.3).

28
Figure 4.3: Distribution of Market Facilities in the LMKD

Source: Town and Country Planning Department, LMKD, 2011

The UMKD seems to have a different situation as the markets at Asesewa, Akateng and Sekesua
have permanent market stores and stalls. These three large markets form the vibrant commercial
hubs of the UMKD. Other markets in the district include the Akrusu, Akotoe, Puponya and
Anyaboni daily markets (see Figure 4.4).

29
Figure 4.4: Distribution of Market Facilities in the UMKD

Source: Town and Country Planning Department, UMKD, 2011

One common feature of the large markets in both the LMKD and UMKD is the absence of
specific structures for Artisans to display their wares. All the markets in the two districts can
readily be classified as traditional markets as agricultural produce constitutes about 65% of the
goods traded in the markets.

Most of the remote markets in the two districts lack permanent stalls and stores and periodic
markets are held under trees. There are only trees and some cases market sheds erected by the
traders themselves. The problem of inadequate market infrastructure in the districts is further

30
compounded by the inaccessibility to most of the market centres especially during rainy seasons.
Most of the feeder roads linking farming communities to the market centres become impassable
in the rainy seasons and this phenomenon hinders trading activities in the small communities
markets.

Table 4.3: Market infrastructure and facilities in LMKD

Type of Market Location Condition Availability of Lorry

(Daily/Weekly) Parks

Weekly Agormanya Average Good

Weekly Akuse Bad Bad
Daily Kpong Fair Good
Daily Atua Fair Average
Daily Laasi Fair Average
Daily Kpongunor Fair Average
Daily Nuaso Fair Average
Daily Mampong Fair Average
Source: LMKD MTDP, 2010-2013.

Table 4.4: Market infrastructure and facilities in UMKD

Availability of Lorry
Type of Market (Daily/Weekly) Location Condition
Parks
Weekly Asesewa Good Good
Weekly Sekesua Fair Fair
Weekly Akateng Average Average
Daily Akrusu Bad Bad
Daily Akotoe Bad Bad
Daily Puponya Fair Fair
Daily Anyaboni Bad Bad
Daily Mampong Bad Bad
Source: UMKD MTDP, 2010-2013.

31
4.5 The Current State of Transportation in the Study Areas

The available modes of transportation in both study areas are water/river and roads, with roads
constituting a majority of about 92%. River transportation follows next with 8%, and this
situation is because, about 10% and 8% of the settlements in the UMKD and LMKD respectively
are located close to the Volta Lake. With the overwhelming usage of road transport in both study
areas, this section examines the current state of transport infrastructure in terms of categories,
lengths and their conditions.

4.5.1 Category and Lengths of Roads

The Districts have an extensive network of roads, which can be classified by their function,
surface type and condition. The Upper Manya Krobo District has a total road network of 333km,
comprising feeder roads, trunk roads and community access roads. According to the Medium
Term Development Plan (2010-2013) of UMKD, 212km of the total road network constitutes
feeder roads (roads linking rural areas to major towns within the District). In addition, 65km
constitutes trunk roads (roads leading into and out of the district), and community access roads
taking 56km (see Table 4.5).

Similarly, according to the MTDP (2010-2013) of LMKD, out of the total 302km of road
network in the Lower Manya Krobo District, 190km comprises feeder roads, while truck roads
and community access roads equally have 56km.

Table 4.5: Categories and Length of Roads in the Study Areas

Length of Roads
Asesewa Agormanya
Road Category
Length (km) Proportion (%) Length (km) Proportion (%)
Trunk roads 65 19.5 56 18.5
Feeder roads 212 63.7 190 63.0
Access roads 56 16.8 56 18.5
Total 333 100 302 100
Source: Department of Feeder Roads (UMKD and LMKD), 2011

32
4.5.2 Conditions of Roads
Largely, the conditions of these roads are also related to their surface types, because roads higher
in the hierarchy ought to have a surface type that will facilitate the smooth flow of traffic.
According to data from the Department of Feeder Roads (2011) in both districts, the surface
types include bitumen, gravel, and earth as linked with the trunk, feeder, and community access
roads respectively. It is worth noting that, the classification of roads into good, fair and poor is
not informed by the surface type but by parameters such as availability of drains along roads,
presence of potholes on the roads and travel time and speed. Out of the total 212km of feeder
roads in the UMKD, 53.7%, 21.1%, and 25.2% are classified as good, fair, and poor with a
corresponding average speed of 70km/hr, 55km/hr and 20km/hr respectively.

The situation presented for the UMKD is not so different from that of the LMKD, as 65.7%,
19.5% and 14.8% of the total feeder roads are good, fair and poor with a corresponding average
speed of 65km/hr, 40km/hr and 30km/hr respectively. The total length of trunk roads in the two
districts is considered good, while all the community access roads are poor. Comparatively,
roads conditions in the UMKD are in better conditions than the roads in the LMKD.

Table 4.6: Summary of Length and Conditions of Road Types in the Study Areas
Asesewa Agormanya
Length Good Fair Poor Length Good Fair Poor
Road Type
(km) (%) (%) (%) (km) (%) (%) (%)
Trunk 65 100 0 0 56 100 0 0
Feeder 212 53.7 21.1 25.2 190 65.7 19.5 14.8
Access 56 0 0 100 56 0 0 100
Total 333 302
Source: Department of Feeder Roads, UMKD and LMKD, 2011

Generally, the current state of roads in both districts leaves much to be desired as depicted in
Table 4.6. Out of 333km of total road length in UMKD, 100% are access roads are poor and
25.2% of feeder roads are poor. In LMKD, out of 302km of roads length 100% of access roads
are poor and 14.8 are poor. Comparatively, road length and conditions are in LMKD are better
than UMKD. A greater proportion of the road networks especially from the market centre’s to
the farming communities in both district are un-tarred. In addition, most of the town roads are
33
not tarred and this makes it difficult for transportation. There are extensive potholes on them
thereby reducing their ability to support any effective transportation in the districts. This
situation increases travel time, and in the rainy seasons, most of the community access roads
become impassable.

4.6 Summary of Chapter

In this chapter a brief profile of the study areas, in terms of their geophysical and socio-economic
characteristics, agricultural production, and the state of transportation have been discussed. It
was observed that, the UMKD and the LMKD are strategically located in the regional context,
making them quickest points of call between the northern and southern parts of the eastern
corridor of Ghana. In addition, agricultural production was identified to be the major occupation
of the people in both districts due to their location in the semi-deciduous forest, with cassava,
maize, and vegetables as the major crops being produced.

The chapter concluded with the state of transportation in the study areas. It was observed that
most of the roads especially within the towns of the districts are in poor state, and inadequate
funding as alluded by the Department of Feeder Roads, is the main cause of this. This chapter
therefore sets the tone for a full blown discussion of the nexus between transportation,
agricultural production and the development of traditional markets in the next chapter.

34
 CHAPTER FIVE
ANALYSIS OF TRANSPORTATION AND FUNCTIONING OF TRADITIONAL
MARKETS

5.1 Introduction
This chapter analyses and rationalises the data collected for the purpose of the study in order to
make meaning out of it. The chapter establishes linkages between and among the variables that
interplay in the functioning of transport systems and traditional markets. The views of the
various stakeholders on the impacts of transportation on the functioning of the Agormanya and
Asesewa Traditional Markets in the LMKD and UMKD respectively, which were gathered using
the questionnaire and interview guides, are thoroughly discussed in this chapter. Among the
issues on which analyses have been done include agricultural production, modes of
transportation and traditional market facilities in the study areas.

5.2 Functions of the Market

This section of the chapter gives an overview of the functioning of the two markets under
consideration. It brings out the characteristics of the markets in terms of their locations, the
categories of people who trade there and the goods they trade in.

5.2.1 Historical Background and Location of the Markets

Before 1952, most of the functioning markets centres formed the termini of roads. After 1952 the
Krobo’s constructed feeder roads to link their “huza” with the markets. The central government
improved these feeder roads considerably after 1966. This network of motorable roads which
replaced the bush-paths constitutes a significant landmark on the landscape (Addo, 1988). This
made it advantageous for movement of goods than the head loads carriage formerly practiced.

In pre-1952, Manya Krobo farmers travelled with head loads over distances up to 9.7km to sell
their produce. By the time of independence 1957 the villagers through communal labour and
much encouragement from the Government managed to construct feeder roads to link their
villages with the market centres. Since that time the carriage of farm produce to the markets has
been done more by trucks than by head porterage. Due to the nodality of the markets, other
functions were added to them. An example of this was Asesewa and Agormanya which could be
described as the social and economic nerve centre of the then Manya Krobo District. In 1948

35
Asesewa contained only two primary schools, a UAC retail shop, two churches, a mosque and
several small retail shops selling either pharmaceutical drugs or imported food or beverages.
Because of these markets, the two communities especially Asesewa experienced significant
growth in population and improvement in accessibility.

The establishment of traditional markets in the two districts was linked up with the agricultural
activities in the area, the demand for agricultural produce of the area by other people and the
desire of the Manya Krobo (currently Upper and lower Manya district) to obtain non-agricultural
produce through medium of exchange. These markets made the then Manya Krobo District in
Ghana to become the source of foodstuffs to major urban centers of the country (including
Accra, Takoradi, Kumasi, Tamale and Bolgatanga) from colonial times to the late seventies. This
was made possible because of transportation service as the driving force. The Asesewa market at
one time was the largest market in Ghana, but it lost that prominence due to poor infrastructure
development and lack of meticulous management of the market.

Presently the Asesewa Market is located in Asesewa the capital of UMKD following the split of
the Manya Krobo District in UMKD and LMKD. The total land area of the market is an acre and
serves as the epicentre of commercial activities for communities in the district and beyond,
attracting an average of 3000 traders and visitors during the market days. This is due to its
location in Asesewa, which is situated on a major road that links the northern and southern parts
of the eastern corridor of Ghana. Trading activities are at their peaks on Mondays and Fridays
(the periodic market days) although people sell and buy at the market daily.

Situated in the Agormanya Township in the LMKD district, the Agormanya Market covers a
land area of an acre. The market days for the Agormanya Market are Wednesdays and Saturdays
even though just like the Asesewa Market, selling and buying activities take place at the market
daily. The Agormanya Market is the only large market in the LMKD and as such forms the
vibrant commercial hub of the district with an average visitor/trader population of 2300 per
market day. A major challenge that hinders the expansion of the market is encroachment by
developers due to its location within a residential area. Both markets are currently experiencing
decline in their importance to national development due to the poor transport systems that service
them. This is greatly affecting the activities in the markets as discussed in the subsequent
sections.
36
5.2.2 Background of Market Traders
The total number of registered traders in the Asesewa Market and Agormanya Market are 350
and 450 respectively comprising different categories of people. From the data gathered from the
field survey, it was revealed that the population of the traders in both Asesewa and Agormanya
Markets are youthful. Traders aged 21-40 years constitute 55.2% and 68% of traders captured by
the survey in Asesewa and Agormanya markets respectively. The youthful nature of the traders
gives an indication that the markets are major sources of employment to a significant proportion
of the youth in the towns and the Districts as a whole. The breakdown of the age composition of
the traders is shown in Table 5.1

Table 5.1: Ages of Market Traders

Age Asesewa Agormanya
Traders % Traders %
< 20 2 2.6 1 1.0
21-30 18 23.1 29 35.0
31-40 25 32.1 27 33.0
41-50 16 20.5 16 20.0
50 > 17 21.8 9 11.0
Total 78 100 82 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

In addition to the youthful nature of the traders in the market, the survey further showed that
females constitute about 89.7% and 92.0% of traders at the Asesewa and Agormanya markets
respectively. This is a confirmation of the general perception that trading activities in traditional
markets, which involves the sale of agricultural produce, is undertaken by females. This implies
that the formulation of policies to ensure effective functioning of market will help to empower
the females economically in the two districts. This will facilitate the realization of the
Millennium Development Goal Two which seeks to promote women welfare. The result of the
survey on the gender distribution of the traders in the two markets is shown in Table 5.2.

37
Table 5.2: Gender of Market Traders
Asesewa Agormanya
Gender Frequency % Frequency %
Male 8 10.3 7 8.0
Female 70 89.7 75 92.0
Total 78 100.0 82 100.0
Source: Field Survey, 2011

The survey results in Table 5.3 showed that majority of the traders have been working in both
markets for more than five (5) years. Only 11.5% and 26.0% of the traders at the Asesewa and
Agormanya Markets respectively have traded in the markets for less than five years. This means
that trading in both markets have been the source of livelihood for the traders for at least more
than half of a decade. This clearly shows that the markets form an important part of the economic
lives of the people in the two districts.

Table 5.3: Number of Years Traded in the Market

No. of Years Asesewa Agormanya
Traders % Traders %
0-5 9 11.5 21 26.0
6-10 33 42.3 19 23.0
11-15 16 20.5 21 25.0
16-20 6 7.7 14 17.0
21> 14 17.9 7 9.0
Total 78 100 82 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

5.2.3 Facilities in the Market

The effective functioning of a market is usually dependent on the availability of certain ancillary
facilities to support it. According to Maple Consult and Center for Remote Sensing and
Geographic Information System (CERSGIS) (2010), a local market should be supported by
facilities and services such as parking space, water, electricity, store/sheds, cold storage
facilities, public toilet, refuse disposal site and access roads.

Contrary to this, the survey of the two markets revealed that most of these facilities are absent
while the ones available are inadequate or not in good conditions. From the survey, both markets
are not serviced with electricity and water while fire fighting equipment’s are woefully lacking.

38
It is important to note that the very small spaces being utilised by vehicles in both markets are
not designed lorry parks. The facilities available in the Agormanya and Asesewa Markets are
presented in Tables 5.4 and 5.5 respectively.

Table 5.4: Facilities in Agormanya and Asesewa Market

Facilities/Services Agormanya Asesewa
Conditions and Remarks Conditions and Remarks
Toilet and Urinal Poorly kept Well managed
Open drain Filled with rubbish Well managed
Access roads (in and Occupied by traders Easy movement of pedestrians
out) but difficult for vehicles
Lorry park (no. of Overstretched (virtually no space for Overstretched (a small space
cars) vehicles as just 10 mini cargo for about 15 vehicles restricting
vehicles find difficulty in movement) free traffic movement)
Electricity No facility No facility
Source: Field Survey, 2011

Tables 5.4 clearly show that both markets lack most of the requisite support facilities and
services, a situation, which has partly accounted for the retarded growth of the Agormanya
Market and retrogression of the Asesewa Market. The inadequate space for vehicles in both
markets encourages unauthorised on-street parking which leads to vehicular congestion
especially, on the market days.

5.2.4 Goods Traded in the Markets

The survey showed that there are six categories of goods traded in the markets. These categories
are food crops, meat, processed food, non-food products, fish and fruits. Agricultural produce
comprising food crops, vegetables and food are the most predominant categories of goods traded
in both. These types of goods altogether constitute 95.0% and 92.0% of the goods sold by the
traders in the Asesewa and Agormanya markets respectively. This is a clear indication of the two
markets status as traditional markets. The agro products include vegetables like tomatoes,
pepper, okra, garden eggs, onion; maize, plantains and tubers such as cassava and cocoyam. This
implies that the markets provide important avenues for the marketing of the goods that are

39
produced in both districts as their economies are dominated by the agrarian sector. Table 5.6
shows the various categories of goods traded in the markets by participant’s traders.

Table 5.5: Goods traded in the Markets

Goods Asesewa Agormanya
Traders % Traders %
Non-Food Products 2 2.6 3 4.0
Food Crops 53 67.9 35 43.0
Meat 8 10.3 3 4.0
Processed food 2 2.6 3 4.0
Vegetables 11 14.1 25 30.0
Fish 1 1.3 4 5.0
Fruits 1 1.3 9 10
Total 78 100 82 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

The dominance of agro products in the goods traded in the markets emphasizes the important
role of effective transport in the functioning of such traditional markets. This is because most of
these agricultural produce are perishable and as such need to be conveyed to the market centres.

5.2.5 Origin of Goods

The survey indicated that goods sold in the study markets under study are obtained from within
and outside the districts in which they are situated. The towns and villages in the UMKD from
which goods that are traded in the Asesewa Market include Akantin, Bisa, Aklusi-Sisi, Osonson,
Seseaman and Akotue among others. The Agormanya Market on the other hand receives goods
from towns and villages such as Akuse, Kpong, Ayemesu, Atua and so on all within the LMKD.
These communities are largely responsible for the agricultural commodities (e.g., Plantain,
Cassava, Cocoyam, Yam, Banana and Orange) that flow into the market. These commodity
inflows are very prominent on the respective market days (Mondays and Fridays for Asesewa
and Wednesdays and Saturdays for Agormanya) of both markets as it is on these days that
traders and buyers from within and outside the district do business.

40
Buyers coming into the markets to purchase commodities from outside the districts primarily
come from Ho and Accra with some also coming from Kumasi. A good road transport service
makes it possible for effective spatial interactions and in the case of Asesewa and Agormanya
markets, the presence of trunk roads help in the spatial linkages between UMKD and LMKD and
other parts of the country, primarily in the transportation of agricultural commodities, facilitating
food distribution.

It is however, worthy to note that other agricultural commodities from, especially Northern
Ghana (such as Maize, Rice, Beans, Tomatoes, Yam and Groundnut) also flow into the Asesewa
and Agormanya markets. Industrial goods (such as Clothing, Footwear, Farming Implement,
Radio, Torchlight and Batteries) primarily flow into both markets from Accra and Tema. Other
areas from which goods traded in both markets originate include Koforidua, Kumasi and Ho.

As indicated earlier, both markets are the major ones in their respective districts and this
underscores the importance of the Asesewa and Agormanya markets as far as access to food – a
prime indicator of food security is concerned. Since the economy of both districts is
predominantly agrarian (agriculture sector accounting for 80% of active labour force), the
presence of both markets helps the residents of both districts to access other agricultural and
industrial products. Table 5.6 to 5.9 present the endogenous commodity flows for both the
Asesewa and Agormanya markets.

41
 Table 5.6: Endogenous Inflow for Asesewa Market
Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Origin Quantity Unit % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price *MV %
Cassava 120 Kg 1 120
Asesewa Osonson Plantain 75 Kg 2 150 Gari 200 Kg 2 400
5.1 60.4 775 9.6
Banana 35 Kg 3 105
SUB-TOTAL 375 SUB-TOTAL 400
Plantain 100 Kg 1.5 150
Banana 80 Kg 2 160
Aboaso Cocoyam 50 Kg 1 50 - - - - -
9.6 - 710 8.8
Yam 200 Kg 1 200
Cassava 150 Kg 1 150
SUB-TOTAL 710 SUB-TOTAL -
Maize 200 Kg 1 200
Akantin Yam 150 Kg 1 150 - - - - -
15.6 - 1150 14.3
Orange 400 Kg 2 800
SUB-TOTAL 1150 SUB-TOTAL -
Plantain 150 Kg 2 300
Oil Palm
Cassava 110 Kg 1 110 10 Litres 15 150
Bisa Palm
Banana 85 Kg 2 170 9.5 5 Litres 2 10 24.2 860 10.7
Wine
Maize 120 Kg 1 120
SUB-TOTAL 700 SUB-TOTAL 160
Cassava 90 Kg 1 90
Akotue Cocoyam 180 Kg 1 180 - - - - -
10.2 - 750 9.3
Plantain 240 Kg 2 480
SUB-TOTAL 750 SUB-TOTAL -
Yam 200 Kg 1 200
Aklusi- Cocoyam 130 Kg 1 130
- - - - -
Sisi Plantain 160 Kg 2 320 13.9 - 1025 12.7
Orange 250 Kg 1.5 375
SUB-TOTAL 1025 SUB-TOTAL -

42
Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Origin Quantity Unit % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price MV %
Banana 400 Kg 3 1200
Orange 300 Kg 2 600 Oil Palm
8 Litres 12 96
Seseaman Cassava 150 Kg 1 150 Palm
36.1 3 Litres 2 6 15.4 2772 34.6
Plantain 280 Kg 2 560 Wine
Cocoyam 160 Kg 1 160
SUB-TOTAL 2670 TOTAL 102
GRAND TOTAL 7380 100 GRAND TOTAL 662 100 8042 100

Table 5.7: Endogenous Outflow for Asesewa Market

Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Destination Quantity Units % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price MV %
Fish 3 Kg 3 9 Torch 10 No. 6 60
Groundnut 0.5 Kg 2 1 Battery 3 No. 4 12
Tomatoes 5 Carton 14 70 Soap 20 No. 1 20
Asesewa Osonson
Eggs 2 Crate 5 10 8.6 Footwear 5 No. 5 25 5.2 221 6.4
Rice 10 Kg 2 20
Beans 2 Kg 2 4
SUB-TOTAL 104 SUB-TOTAL 117
Fish 5 Kg 3 15 Radio 2 No. 15 30
Groundnut 1 Kg 2 2 Battery 5 No. 5 25
Aboaso Tomatoes 5 Carton 13 65 Clothing 40 No. 2 80
12.9 7.1 317 9.2
Eggs 5 Crate 5 25 Soap 20 No. 1 20
Rice 25 Kg 2 50 Bowl 10 No. 0.50 5
SUB-TOTAL 157 SUB-TOTAL 160
Tomatoes 2 Carton 15 30 Footwear 10 No. 5 50
Fish 5 Kg 3 15 Clothing 30 No. 2 60
Akantin
Eggs 3 Crate 5 15 8.2 Radio 5 No. 18 90 11.1 350 10.1
Rice 20 Kg 2 40 Soap 30 No. 1 30
SUB-TOTAL 100 SUB-TOTAL 250

43
Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Destination Quantity Units % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price MV %
Tomatoes 2 Carton 12 24 Battery 3 Pack 3 9
Eggs 2 Crate 5 10 Radio 5 No. 5 25
Rice 10 Kg 2 20 Torch 5 No. 6 30
Bisa
Pepper 2 Kg 1 2 4.6 Hoe 5 No. 9 45 7.7 230 6.6
Soap 25 No. 1 25
Clothing 20 No. 2 40
SUB-TOTAL 56 SUB-TOTAL 174
Fish 5 Kg 3 15 Cutlass 3 No. 10 30
Groundnut 1 Kg 2 2 Hoe 5 No. 8 40
Tomatoes 3 Carton 15 45 Radio 4 No. 12 48
Akotue Rice 10 Kg 2 20 Battery 3 Pack 5 15
7.1 9.6 304 8.6
Beans 2 Kg 2 4 Soap 25 No. 1 25
Palm Oil 5 Litres 10 50
Gari 5 Kg 2 10
SUB-TOTAL 86 SUB-TOTAL 218
Fish 4 Kg 3 12 Clothing 25 No. 1 25
Groundnut 2 Kg 2 4 Hoe 5 No. 8 40
Aklusi- Eggs 3 Crate 5 15 Radio 10 No. 15 150
Asesewa
Sisi Rice 15 Kg 2 30 5.4 Torch 10 No. 5 50 14 381 11
Beans 2 Kg 2 4 Battery 5 Pack 3 15
Cutlass 3 No. 12 36
SUB-TOTAL 65 SUB-TOTAL 316
Fish 10 Kg 3 30 Hoe 5 No. 10 50
Groundnut 3 Kg 2 6 Radio 5 No. 8 40
Tomatoes 3 Carton 15 45 Battery 2 Pack 3 6
Seseaman Eggs 5 Crate 5 25 Soap 20 No. 1 20
16 11.3 450 13
Rice 40 Kg 2 80 Clothing 50 No. 2 100
Beans 3 Kg 2 6 Gari 20 Kg 2 40
Pepper 2 Kg 1 2
SUB-TOTAL 194 SUB-TOTAL 256

44
Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Destination Quantity Units % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price MV %
Garden 5 Kg 2 10 Torch 10 No. 6 60
Eggs 3 Crate 5 15 Battery 5 Pack 4 20
Fefe Eggs 20 Rice 2 40 Soap 30 No. 1 30
6 7.1 233 6.7
Rice 4 Kg 2 8 Footwear 10 No. 5 50
Groundnut
SUB-TOTAL 73 SUB-TOTAL 160
Fish 8 Kg 3 24 Palm Oil 5 Litres 8 50
Tomatoes 3 Kg 15 45 Radio 10 No. 15 150
Eggs 5 Carton 5 25 Battery 5 No. 5 25
Akatawia
Rice 15 Kg 2 30 11.9 Gari 15 Kg 2 30 15.2 489 14.1
Garden 10 Kg 2 20 Footwear 15 No. 6 90
Eggs
SUB-TOTAL 144 SUB-TOTAL 345
Groundnut 3 Kg 2 6 Torch 15 No. 5 75
Aframaso Tomatoes 4 Carton 15 60 Battery 5 No. 3 15
7.4 5.1 206 5.9
Eggs 5 Crate 5 25 Footwear 5 No. 5 25
SUB-TOTAL 91 SUB-TOTAL 115
Rice 25 Kg 2 50 Clothing 35 No. 2 70
Beans 2 Kg 2 4 Footwear 6 No. 5 30
Akotue
Tomatoes 4 Carton 15 60 11.9 Battery 3 Pack 3 9 6.6 293 8.4
Eggs 6 Crate 5 30 Radio 5 No. 8 40
SUB-TOTAL 144 SUB-TOTAL 149
GRAND TOTAL 1214 100 GRAND TOTAL 2260 100 3474 100

45
 Table 5.8: Endogenous Inflow for Agormanya Market
Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Origin Quantity Units % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price MV %
Agormanya Yam 200 Kg 1 200 Torch 20 No. 8 160
Plantain 240 Kg 2 480 Palm Oil 10 Litre 12 120
Cassava 250 Kg 1 250 Clothing 50 No. 1 50
Odumase
Banana 200 Kg 3 600 39.7 Soap 50 No. 1 50 62 2270 43.7
Rice 50 Kg 2 100 Radio 20 No. 8 160
Fish 20 Kg 3 60 Battery 10 Pack 4 40
SUB-TOTAL 1690 SUB-TOTAL 580
Plantain 50 Kg 1 50
Atua Cocoyam 100 Kg 1 100 - - - - -
5.9 - 250 4.8
Cassava 100 Kg 1 100
SUB-TOTAL 250 SUB-TOTAL -
Maize 50 Kg 0.7 35
Akuse Yam 100 Kg 1 100 - - - - -
6.7 - 285 5.5
Cocoyam 150 Kg 1 150
SUB-TOTAL 285 SUB-TOTAL -
Cocoyam 150 Kg 1 150 Footwear 30 No. 5 150
Plantain 150 Kg 1.5 225 Radio 10 No. 15 150
Kpong
Yam 100 Kg 1 100 15.4 Battery 5 Pack 3 15 38 1010 19.4
Orange 120 Kg 1.5 180 Padlocks 20 No. 2 40
SUB-TOTAL 655 SUB-TOTAL 355
Plantain 150 Kg 2 300
Nuaso Cassava 110 Kg 1 110 - - - - -
13.6 - 580 11.2
Banana 85 Kg 2 170
SUB-TOTAL 580 SUB-TOTAL -
Banana 100 Kg 3 300
Ayemesu Orange 100 Kg 1 100 - - - - -
Yam 100 Kg 1 100 11.7 - 500 9.6
SUB-TOTAL 500 SUB-TOTAL -

46
 Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Origin Quantity Units % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price MV %
Cassava 100 Kg 0.5 50
Mampon Cocoyam 100 Kg 1 100 - - - - -
7 - 300 5.8
Plantain 150 Kg 1 150
SUB-TOTAL 300 SUB-TOTAL -
GRAND TOTAL 4260 100 GRAND TOTAL 935 100 5195 100

Table 5.9: Endogenous Outflow for Agormanya Market

Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Destination Quantity Units % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price MV %
Groundnut 5 Kg 3 15
Agormanya Odumase Tomatoes 20 Carton 15 300 - - - - -
29.8 - 325 16.4
Beans 5 Kg 2 10
SUB-TOTAL 325 SUB-TOTAL -
Fish 5 Kg 4 20 Radio 2 No. 6 12
Tomatoes 5 Carton 4 20 Battery 5 No. 3 15
Atua
Eggs 5 Crate 5 25 9.7 Clothing 40 No. 2 80 14.2 232 11.7
Rice 20 Kg 2 40 Soap 20 No. 1 20
SUB-TOTAL 105 SUB-TOTAL 127
Tomatoes 15 Carton 13 195 Footwear 10 No. 6 60
Fish 5 Kg 3 15 Clothing 30 No. 2 60
Akuse
Eggs 3 Crate 5 15 Radio 5 No. 12 60
24.5 25.7 497 25.1
Beans 1 Kg 2 2 Gari 10 Kg 2 20
Rice 20 Kg 2 40 Soap 30 No. 1 30
SUB-TOTAL 267 SUB-TOTAL 230
Tomatoes 2 Carton 16 32 Battery 3 Pack 5 15
Eggs 2 Crate 5 10 Torch 5 No. 8 40
Nuaso
Rice 10 Kg 2 20 5.9 Soap 25 No. 1 25 13.4 184 9.2
Pepper 2 Kg 1 2 Clothing 20 No. 2 40
SUB-TOTAL 64 SUB-TOTAL 120

47
 Market Agric Unit Total Industrial Unit Total Total
Destination Quantity Units % Quantity Units %
center Goods Price Price Goods Price Price MV %
Fish 5 Kg 4 20 Radio 4 No. 18 48
Groundnut 1 Kg 3 3 Battery 3 Pack 5 15
Mampon Tomatoes 3 Carton 15 45 Soap 25 No. 1 25
9 17.7 256 12.9
Rice 10 Kg 2 20 Palm Oil 5 Litres 12 60
Beans 5 Kg 2 10 Gari 5 Kg 2 10
SUB-TOTAL 98 SUB-TOTAL 158
Fish 4 Kg 5 20
Groundnut 2 Kg 3 6
Agormanya Kpong Eggs 3 Crate 5 15 - - - - -
4.3 47 2.4
Beans 2 Kg 3 6

SUB-TOTAL 47 SUB-TOTAL -
Fish 10 Kg 3 30 Hoe 5 No. 10 50
Groundnut 3 Kg 2 6 Radio 5 No. 8 40
Tomatoes 3 Carton 12 36 Battery 2 Pack 5 10
Ayemesu
Eggs 5 Crate 5 25 16.8 Soap 20 No. 1 20 29 443 22.3
Rice 40 Kg 2 80 Clothing 50 No. 2 100
Beans 3 Kg 2 6 Gari 20 Kg 2 40
SUB-TOTAL 183 SUB-TOTAL 260
GRAND TOTAL 1089 100 GRAND TOTAL 895 100 1984 100

48
Tables 5.6 to 5.9 show the endogenous inflows and outflows of agricultural and industrial
commodities of the Asesewa and Agormanya markets.

The commodity flow analysis was primarily to identify the commercial interaction between the
two major markets and the district, finding the origin and destination of the commodities.

It was not surprising to observe that the endogenous inflows of the Asesewa market are mainly
agricultural products, with Palm Oil and ‘Gari’, being the only industrial commodities. Due to
the existence of urban towns in the Lower manya Krobo District (Odumase and Kpong), there
are substantial endogenous industrial inflows into the Agormanya market. These include
Clothing, Footwear and Hardware.

Total endogenous agricultural inflow for Asesewa market constituted 91.8%, with 8.2% being
industrial commodities. A similar situation can be found in the Agormanya market, with
agricultural endogenous inflows constituting 82%, with the remaining 18% being industrial
commodities. It was also observed from the commodity flow analysis for Upper Manya Krobo
District that, 65.1% of all endogenous outflows are industrial in nature as against 34.9% being
agricultural. These agricultural products are basically commodities that are fairly produced
within the district and they include groundnut, beans, rice, maize and yam. The total value of all
endogenous inflows for both Asesewa and Agormanya markets were GH¢8,042 and GH¢5,195
respectively.

The endogenous commodity inflows and outflows have been presented in Figures 5.1 and 5.2
respectively.

49
Figure 5.1: Endogenous Inflows for Asesewa Market Figure 5.2: Endogenous Inflows for Agormanya Market

Agricultural Commodities

Industrial Commodities

Agricultural Commodities

Industrial Commodities

Source: Town and Country Planning Dep’t, UMKD, 2011. Source: Town and Country Planning Department, LMKD, 2011.

50
Table 5.10: Flow of Commodities into the Asesewa Market (Endogenous Inflow)
Community Agriculture (%) Industrial (%) Total Contribution
Osonson 5.1 60.4 9.6
Aboaso 9.6 - 8.8
Akotue 10.2 - 9.3
Seseaman 36.1 15.4 34.6
Bisa 9.5 24.2 10.7
Akantin 15.6 - 14.3
Aklusi-Sisi 13.9 - 12.7
Total 100 100 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

Table 5.11: Flow of Commodities into the Agormanya Market (Endogenous Inflow)
Community Agriculture (%) Industrial (%) Total Contribution
Akuse 6.7 - 5.5
Ayemesu 11.7 - 9.6
Atua 5.9 - 4.8
Nuaso 13.6 - 11.2
Odumase 39.7 62 43.7
Kpong 15.4 38 19.4
Mampon 7 - 5.8
Total 100 100 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

A careful observation of the commodity flow matrices shows the presence of certain staple foods
in many communities. These communities can thus be said to be production centres of such
commodities, which is also the staple food of the people in both districts. However, it is easily
seen that the Agormanya market is heavily served by communities along major routes. This is
due to the reluctance of drivers to ply roads in very poor conditions and communities very distant
from the market center. Table 5.12 shows some commodities and production centres.

51
Table 5.12: Production Centres of Staple Crops
UMKD LMKD
STAPLE CROPS
Production Centers Production Centers
Cassava Aboaso, Osonson, Bisa, Seseaman Mampon, Nuaso, Atua, Odumase
Seseaman, Aklusi-Sisi, Akotue, Bisa,
Plantain Odumase, Nuaso, Kpong, Mampon
Aboaso
Yam Aboaso, Akantin Odumase, Akuse, Ayemesu, Kpong
Cocoyam Aklusi-Sisi, Seseaman, Akotue Atua, Kpong, Mampon, Akuse
Banana Seseaman Odumase, Ayemesu
Orange Aklusi-Sisi, Seseaman, Akantin Ayemesu, Kpong
Source: Field Survey, 2011

5.2.6 Contribution of the Markets to Development

As was realised in literature, the survey revealed that the markets under study contribute
immensely to the socio-economic development of communities and the districts. These
developments are in the form of revenue generation, employment creation and opening up of the
areas through the attraction of population. Contrary, the development of the markets are faced
with challenges due to poor collaboration between the stakeholders thus the traditional authority
and the modern political authority in the regulation and maintenance market. The topmost of the
challenges is the compensation to traditional land owners of the markets and formal transfer of
land ownership to the District Assembly. This has consequently slowed down the improvement
of the markets for enhanced welfare.

Contribution to Revenue Generation/IGF

The survey indicated that the Asesewa Market and Agormanya Market serve as a major source
of internally generated revenue for the UMKD and LMKD respectively. This takes the form of
the tolls, which are collected, from the sellers for the management and administration of the
markets. In Table 5.13, it revealed that Asesewa total market revenue from 2009 to 2010
increased by 7.2 % and Agormanya market also experienced an increase of 38.4 % within the
same years.

52
Table 5.13: Total Revenue from Asesewa and Agormanya Markets (2008-2010)
Fiscal Year Asesewa Agormanya
Revenue (GH¢) % Change Revenue (GH¢) % Change
2008 41,563.40 - 55,141.30 -
2009 53,736.90 29.3 59,145.44 7.3

2010 65,592.87 22.1 86,147.34 45.7

Source: Budget and Finance Department, UMKD, LMKD, 2011

Data gathered from the Budget Offices of both the UMKD and LMKD indicates that the revenue
contribution of Asesewa and Agormanya markets to internally generated funds though not
decreasing, have been increasing at a decreasing percentage rate in terms of contribution of funds
to IGF (Table 5.13). This can be attributed to the poor conditions of the road networks that
service the markets, which have also affected their effective functioning. Table 5.14 elaborates
the contribution of the two markets to the IGF of their respective districts. Although there were
markets contribution to IGF, percentage contribution to IGF decreased from the year 2008 to
2010 in both markets.

Table 5.14: Contribution of Asesewa and Agormanya Markets to District’s IGF (2008 –
2010)
Asesewa Market Agormanya Market
Fiscal Total IGF Revenue % of IGF Total IGF Revenue % of IGF
(GH¢) from from (GH¢) from from
Year
Market Market market Market
revenue revenue
2008 503,790.34 41,563.40 8.3 528,854.44 55,141.30 11.0
2009 690,095.31 53,736.90 7.8 795,124.78 59,145.44 8.0
2010 927,481.56 65,592.90 7.1 1,704,481 86,147.34 5.0
Source: Budget and Finance Department, UMKD, LMKD, 2011

Employment Creation
The survey showed that the markets provide employment opportunities for various categories of
people directly and indirectly. These include the traders, waste management companies, transport
operators and financial service providers among others. The survey indicated that the traders in
both markets have an average of three aides who support them in their activities to receive
53
meagre wages. Thus, the markets help in reducing the unemployment problems in the districts
and the nation at large to some extent. It was revealed from the Medium Term Development
Plans (MTDP) of both Districts indicates that the markets employ about 1,115 and 934 people in
Asesewa and Agormanya markets respectively in different categories. The survey made it known
that the average monthly income of the traders in the Asesewa and Agormanya markets is
GH¢230 and this is relatively high compared to the national minimum wage of GH¢95.

Availability of Social Facilities

The vibrancy of the Asesewa market helped in the development of the Asesewa township due to
its strategic location and attraction of traders and visitors (a daily average of 3000
traders/visitors). Consequently, the town has been served with a lot of facilities including; five
primary schools, and five middle schools, a palm oil mill, two UAC department retail shop, a
bank, post office, health centre, district agricultural station and sub treasury. Other facilities in
the town are two magistrate courts, police station, five chapels and a mosque, a pipe water
supply system and more than hundred small retail shops that traded in a variety of goods in the
Asesewa township.

It must be indicated that Asesewa owes a great deal of its reputation to the market in the town
and that the market contributed in no small way to its present status as the capital of the UMKD.
The case of the Agormanya Market is not different from that of Asesewa. Although it is not the
district capital, Agormanya stands out as the most important town in the LMKD with respect to
commercial activities the survey indicated. This is mainly due to the presence of the market in
the town.

5.3 Transportation of Goods

Without a well-developed transportation system, traditional markets potentials cannot be full
exploited. Besides, a good transportation system in traditional markets development could
provide efficient movement of agricultural produce from production centres, reduce transport
cost, and promote service delivery. Based on empirical evidence, this section of the chapter
analyse the extent to which transportation functions in the development of the Asesewa and
Agormanya Markets. Specifically, the section addresses issues such as: modes of transporting
goods traded in the market; roads often used; and the conditions of these roads.

54
5.3.1 Modes of Transporting Market Goods
Although there are two modes of transportation in both study areas as stated in the previous
chapter, road transport is the most predominant in the movement of goods to the Asesewa and
Agormanya markets. Out of the traders (sellers) and buyers interviewed in both markets, all of
them use road transport. Reasons for this are not farfetched. One, the major production centres
are all accessed by roads, although some are not very motorable, especially in the rainy seasons.

The major roads used in the transportation of goods from agricultural production centers in
UMKD are; the Akantin – Asesewa, Aklusi-Sisi – Asesewa, Osonson – Asesewa and Akotue –
Asesewa roads which all lead to the Asesewa market, and Akuse – Agormanya and Atua –
Agormanya roads which also lead to the Agormanya market in LMKD. Tables 5.15 and 5.16
present the routes used by traders in accessing the two main markets. Buyers who also transport
purchased commodities from the market centres to various communities in both UMKD and
LMKD also ply the same principal routes. The inability of all communities (such as Kobose,
Apla, Sapor Doribo etc. in LMKD and Anyilesu, Dzaman, Nsuatapng etc. in UMKD) in both
districts to fully participate in trading activities in the markets is down to the very poor nature of
roads and the reluctance of drivers to ply these routes.

Table 5.15: Roads Used by Traders in Asesewa Market

(%) Vol. of Goods (%)
Roads No. of traders
(tonnes)
Akantin – Asesewa 30 38.5 6 50.4
Aklusi-Sisi – Asesewa 7 8.9 1.5 12.6
Osonson – Asesewa 36 46.2 3.2 26.9
Akotue – Asesewa 5 6.4 1.2 10.1
Total 78 100 11.9 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

Table 5.16: Roads Used by Market Traders in Agormanya Market

Roads Number of (%) Vol. of Goods (%)
traders (tonnes)
Akuse – Agormanya 30 36.6 2.1 21.6
Ayemesu – Agormanya 52 63.4 7.6 78.4
Total 82 100.0 9.7 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

55
Table 5.17: Roads Used by Buyers in Asesewa Market
(%) Vol. of Goods (%)
Roads No. of traders
(tonnes)
Akantin – Asesewa 12 60 1.3 43.3
Aklusi-Sisi – Asesewa 3 15 0.8 26.7
Osonson – Asesewa 4 20 0.6 20.0
Akotue – Asesewa 1 5 0.3 10.0
Total 20 100 3.0 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

Table 5.18: Roads Used by Buyers in Agormanya Market

Roads Number of (%) Vol. of Goods (%)
traders (tonnes)
Akuse – Agormanya 7 35 0.6 35.3
Ayemesu – Agormanya 13 65 1.1 64.7
Total 20 100.0 1.7 100
Source: Field Survey, 2011

The decision to use a particular road depends on a number of factors. It was found out from the
survey that, the major factors influencing the usage of a particular road by market traders were
the conditions of the road and proximity to source of goods as can be seen in Table 5.19.

Table 5.19: Reasons for Choice of Roads

Asesewa Agormanya
Reasons Traders % Traders %
Conditions of road 59 75.6 54 67.0
Proximity to source of goods 19 24.4 28 33.0
Total 78 100.0 82 100.0
Source: Field Survey, 2011

5.4 Effects of Road Conditions on Traditional Markets Development

Having examined the functioning of the Asesewa and Agormanya Markets, and the state of
transportation in the both study areas, this section further looks at the connection between these
two variables (the markets and transportation) in terms of cost of transportation; time; percentage
of harvested goods that get to the markets; and the percentage of transported goods that arrive
safely in the market.
56
5.4.1 Transport Cost
It is generally recognized that transport operating costs, are higher on rough roads than on good
quality bitumen roads and generally reflects in passenger fares and freight tariffs paid by
commuters. Although, other factors such as the distance covered and the nature of goods (in
terms of their weight) to be transported affect the transport cost, a major factor is the conditions
of the road. On an average, the cost of transporting goods from the production centres to the
markets stand at GH₵ 12 per tonne (a single trip made using a KIA truck) over a distance of 1
km. However, this cost varies as per the conditions of the road. The study revealed that, for a
good road, traders in both markets are charged an average of GH₵ 8.85 per trip per tonne. On the
other hand, traders who use poor roads pay an average amount of GH₵ 15 per trip per tonne as
transportation cost (see Table 5.20).

Table 5.20: Road Conditions and Transport Cost

Transport Cost (per tonnes/trip) Average
Road Conditions
Asesewa (GH₵) Agormanya (GH₵)
Good 8.50 9.20 8.85
Fair 11.70 12.60 12.15
Poor 15.80 14.25 15.02
Average 12 12 12
Source: Traders at Asesewa and Agormanya Markets, 2011

The findings presented in Table 5.20 were confirmed by the transport operators in both study
areas when asked about the factors that influence the fixing of transport charges. It was found out
that, most transport operators did not want to go to areas where the roads were seriously
deteriorated because of the cost involved especially in the area of fuel maintenance cost of their
vehicles. In instances where they decided to go, they charged high freight charges to cater for the
cost of maintenance resulting from the frequent breakdown of vehicles in using such roads. Thus,
the extent to which the road is deteriorated has a high correlation on transport cost.

It can be inferred from the above that, the profit margin of traders whose goods are transported
on poor roads are reduced because agricultural produce are price sensitive, hence trader cannot

57
push the total cost burden to buyers. This has partly become a disincentive for their continual
trading in the market.

5.4.2 Travel Time

The survey unravelled that road condition is a determinant of travel time aside distance.
According to the transport operators in both districts (KIA tipper truck drivers), it takes them an
one hour to travel an average distance of 50 kilometres of a road in good condition, an example
being the Akantin – Asesewa and Akuse – Agormanya roads. The study discovered that drivers
who ply roads which are in good conditions use shorter time to cover the same distance as their
counterparts who ply roads which are in poor conditions. The drivers indicated that they use an
average of 30km per an hour and 10km per an hour on roads which are in fair and poor
conditions respectively.

Table 5.21: Road Conditions and Travel Time along Major Routes
Travel Time (km per hour)
Road
UMKD LMKD
Conditions
Route Speed Route Speed
Good Akantin – Asesewa 50km/h Akuse - Agormanya 55km/h
Osonson – Asesewa 35km/h Ayemesu - Agormanya 30km/h
Fair
Akotue - Asesewa 25km/hr
Poor Aklusi-Sisi - Asesewa 10km/h
Source: Transport Operators, Asesewa and Agormanya, 2011

The above revelation was confirmed by the traders in both markets as 48% and 39% in the
Asesewa and Agormanya Markets respectively said that their goods are usually unduly delayed
in transit. According to the traders, this affects their ability to engage in trading activities for
longer hours which eventually reduces the quantity of goods they are able to sell.

5.4.4 Percentage of Transported Goods that Arrive Safely in the Market

The effects of road conditions on the development of traditional markets in the study areas was
indicated by the percentage of transported goods that arrive safely in these markets. Although
this variable does not have a direct bearing on the development of the markets, it affects market

58
traders as it influences the quantity of goods that are available for sale in the markets, which
invariably also affects the revenue generated from the sales of the goods.

From the outcome of the survey, it was realised that about 70% and 80% of agricultural goods
from production centres arrive safely at Asesewa and Agormanya traditional markets
respectively. This indicates that about 30% and 20% of agriculture goods perished before they
arrive at the market centres. The perished goods are basically vegetables while the broken goods
are normally associated with crops such as cassava and yam. This situation affects the quantity of
agriculture goods that arrives at the market, which consequently affects the income level of
market traders, and revenue mobilization from the markets.

5.5 Summary of Chapter

The chapter has made it clear that the market facilities under study are traditional markets as
greater proportion of the goods traded there are agricultural produce. Traders from all parts of the
country north, south, east and west patronize the traditional markets. This has made markets very
crucial elements in the development of the districts, in which they are located.

The chapter however, made it known that the effective functioning of the markets is being
hindered by the poor transport system to the markets and agricultural production centres. This
sometimes, results in the perishing of the goods. The next chapter highlights the key findings that
were made by the study in detail.

59
 CHAPTER SIX
MAJOR FINDINGS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION

6.1 Introduction
In the previous chapter, a presentation and analysis of the surveyed data were made. Specific
attention was on the characteristics, contribution of the traditional markets in development, state
of the transportation system and the linkage between the traditional markets and the
transportation system. This chapter recaps the principal findings from the data analysed. The
chapter also contains recommendations which have been put forth in response to the findings as
well as the general conclusion of this work.

6.2 Major Findings

6.2.1 Nature of road transportation service
The choice of site for traditional markets in the study area was influenced by the convergence of
routes. Currently these routes are now transformed into roads. The study revealed that although
there are two modes of transportation in both study areas, road transport is the most predominant
mode used in the movement of goods to the Asesewa and Agormanya markets.

The Upper Manya Krobo District has a total road network of 333km, comprising feeder roads,
trunk roads and community access roads. According to the Medium Term Development Plan
(MTDP) of UMKD, 212km representing 63.7% of the total road network are feeder roads. In
addition, 65km are trunk roads with community access roads taking 56km. Similarly, out of the
total 302km of road network in the Lower Manya Krobo District, 190km comprise feeder roads,
while trunk roads and community access roads equally have 56km. The situation presented about
the conditions of roads in the UMKD is not so different from the state of roads in the LMKD as
65.7%, 19.5% and 14.8% of the total feeder roads are good, fair and poor respectively. The total
length of trunk roads in the district is considered good, while all the community access roads are
poor.

A greater proportion of the road network, especially from the market centres to the farming
communities in both districts, are feeder roads with potholes which makes it difficult for
movement of agricultural goods from agricultural production centre. There are extensive
potholes on them thereby reducing their ability to support any effective transportation in the

60
districts. This situation increases travel time, and in the rainy seasons, most of the community
access roads become impassable.

6.2.2 Characteristics of the markets

Available market infrastructure in the two districts consist of the physical place where periodic
buying and selling takes place and sheds constructed from wood, roofed with roofing sheets.
Most of the remote markets in the two districts lack permanent stalls and stores while periodic
markets are held under trees.

The survey showed that there are six categories of goods traded in the markets. These categories
are food crops, meat, processed food, non-food products, processed food, fish and fruits.
Agricultural produce comprising food crops, vegetables and food stand out as the most
predominant categories of goods traded in both markets. These types of goods altogether
constitute 95.0% and 92.0% of the goods sold by the traders in the Asesewa and Agormanya
markets respectively. The survey showed that females constitute 89.7% and 92.0% of traders at
the Asesewa and Agormanya markets respectively.

6.2.3 Current state of the Markets

One main impediment to effective performance of traditional markets is the absence of
supporting facilities. The study revealed that both markets lack ancillary facilities like water,
electricity, public toilet and fire fighting equipment. The inadequate space for vehicles in both
markets also results in on-street parking, leadimg to vehicular congestion especially, on the
market days.

6.2.4 Contribution of Traditional Markets in Development

As was showed in literature, the survey revealed that the markets under study contribute
immensely to the socio-economic development of the districts and the country as a whole. It was
realised from the study that facilities and services such as five (5) primary and five (5) middle
schools, a palm oil mill, a bank, a post office, health post and several retail shops were attracted
to Asesewa because of the presence of the market in the town (Addo, 1988). Similar
developments took place at different levels at Agormanya.

The study uncovered that the markets provide employment opportunities for various categories
of people directly and indirectly. It was revealed that the markets employed about 1,115 and 934
61
people in both Asesewa and Agormanya markets respectively in different categories. These
include the traders, waste management companies, transport operators and financial service
providers among others. The survey also indicated that the Asesewa Market and Agormanya
Market serve as a major source of internally generated revenue for the UMKD and LMKD
respectively. This takes the form of the tolls, which are collected, from the sellers for the
management and administration of the markets. From the study Asesewa raised total revenue of
Gh₵ 160,893.17 from the years of 2008, 2009 and 2010 and Agormanya also realised total
revenue of Gh₵ 200,434.08 from the same years.

6.2.5 Transportation and Agricultural Production Centers

As observed in the country as a whole, agriculture is the backbone of the economy of both
UMKD and LMKD. The main agricultural activities that are carried out in the two districts are
farming (crop farming), with quite a significant proportion of the people engaged in fishing and
livestock rearing. The survey indicated that goods sold in the study markets are obtained from
within and outside the districts in which they are situated. From 73.6% and 81.0% of the goods
traded at the markets in Asesewa and Agormanya respectively are from within the district and
26.4% and 19.0% of the goods traded at the markets in Asesewa and Agormanya respectively are
from outside the district.

It is generally recognized that transport operating costs, are higher on poor roads than on good
quality bitumen roads and generally this will be reflected in passenger fares and freight tariffs.
Although, other factors such as the distance to cover the nature of goods (in terms of their
weight) to be transported affect the transport cost, a major factor is the conditions of the roads.

It was found out that, most transport operators did not want to go to agricultural production areas
where the roads were seriously deteriorated because of the risks involved especially in the area
of maintenance of their vehicles. In instances where they decided to go, they charge high freight
fares to cater for the cost of maintenance resulting from the frequent breakdown of vehicles in
using such roads. The study has also shown that road condition is a major determinant of travel
speed, time and cost.

62
6.3 Recommendations
To re-establish the role played by the traditional markets in the Districts, the following
recommendations have been put forth to help transform and advance the markets.

6.3.1 Institutional Arrangement for the Management of Traditional Markets

Institutional arrangement for the management of the market is an issue of concern. There is a
setback between the traditional authority, District Assembly and the owners of the market space
as to the development, regulation and collection of levy at the Agormanya market. This situation
has slowed down the development pace of the market since there is lack of mutual understanding
between major stakeholders regarding the operations and maintenance of the markets.

The District Assembly should recognize the traders and the traditional rulers as foremost
stakeholders; therefore market focused activities must be participatory and transparent to them.
The District Assembly must also compensate and formalize the transfer of ownership of the
market land area from the native owners to the District Assembly. This will prevent the barrier
posed by the native owners towards the development of the market for a favourable environment
and speedy development of the market to propel the necessary improvement and changes.

6.3.2 Comprehensive Road Development Policies

From the study, it is glaring that road transportation must be given the necessary investment push
by the government and the District Assembly especially spatial linkages between traditional
markets and agricultural centres. In total effect, transport cost will reduce and rural traders will
have close access to customers at market place that will ensure realistic prices for their hard
earned production. Priority must be given to roads between agricultural dominant areas of
Aklusi-Sisi, Seseaman, Akantin to Asesewa for easy carriage of agricultural goods. According to
the survey, these three towns account for 65.6% of the total volume of endogenous goods (in
monetary terms) entering the Asesewa market.

In Lower Manya District importance must also be given to roads from agricultural dominant
areas of Nuaso, Ayemesu, and Kobose to Agormanya for easy accessibility of the market. It was
realised that save Ayemesu and Nuaso, all other endogenous inflows into the Agormanya market
were from towns located along the major road. While Ayemesu accounts for 11.7% of all
endogenous inflows (in monetary terms), Nuaso accounts for 13.6%. This presupposes that, there

63
is the potential for other agricultural communities such as Doribo, Kobose, and Sapor which are
distant in location from the capital (Odumase) and Agormanya and further worsened by the poor
nature of feeder road linking them to the two aforementioned important towns, to contribute to
the economy of the district.

6.3.3 Improve Market Facilities

A conscious effort of progress in market infrastructure will reduce the plight and create the
enabling environment for market users. The District Assembly should provide facilities to create
an environment for the traders and buyers in the markets. These facilities must come in the form
of a school, parking space, water, electricity, public toilet, refuse disposal point, fire fighting
facilities, access roads drainage system and well-structured stalls for traders. The overall effect
will improve the patronage of the market hence improvement in revenue mobilizations and
livelihood of the people.

6.4 Conclusion
The research project was aimed at examining the link between road transportation and traditional
market development. The research found evidence of poor market facilities, poor linkage
between road transportation, markets places and agricultural production centres and decline in
the markets’ revenue contribution thus Districts internally generated funds for development
projects. The outcome of these situations is because of low emphasis of road transportation
system from agricultural production centres to markets and inadequate reinvestment of market
revenue into construction and improvement of market facilities. The effects of these are poor
market facilities unable to support market activities, perished goods at production centres,
inadequate revenue mobilisation due to low patronage of the markets. It is believed that a careful
implementation of the recommendations made would improve traditional markets and rural
welfare.

64
REFERENCES

Addo, S.T. (1976). 'Impact of transportation cost on agricultural development in developing

countries: a Ghanaian example', Bulletin of the Ghana Geographical Association.pp 35-40

Addo, S.T. (1988). 'Traditional markets in the development process in Manya Krobo in Ghana'
Singapore Journal of Tropical Geography, 9 (1) pp. 1-17.

Addo, S.T. (1990). The transportation factor in wood-fuel distribution in Ghana, The Journal of
Management Studies, (Legon). pp 1-12

Addo, S.T. (1995). ‘Accessibility, mobility and the development Process’ Research Review,
Institute of African Studies, Accra.

Addo, S.T. (2002). ‘Urban transport in Ghana and Africa: Ghana Social Journal

Aryeetey, Ernest, Goldstein and Markus (2000). ‘The evolution of social policy’ in Economic
Reforms in Ghana: The Miracle and Mirage. Oxford: Currey.

Ameyaw, S. (1990), Dynamics of Female Entrepreneurship in Indigenous Food Markets; A case

study of Techiman, Ghana, Michigan State University Working Paper 205, Michigan State
University.

Baba-Moussa, (2005). Transport and the Millennium Development Goals in Africa. Ecowas
Commission on Transport.

Dickson, K.B (1969), A historical geography of Ghana, Cambridge

Faulks Rex W (1999). International Transport, An Introduction to Current Practices and Future
Trends .Kogan Page Limited, London

Hoyle, B., S. (ed.) (1973), Transport and development. Macmillan, London.

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Hoyle B., S. and Smith, J. (1992), ‘Transport and development’ in Modern Transport Geography

Kumekpor, T., K., B. (2002), Research Methods and Techniques of Social Research. Son life
Press, Accra

La Anyane, S. (1962), Agriculture in the general economy in Brian Wills, J (ed), Agriculture and
land use in Ghana. Oxford University Press, London.

Laws Sophie with Harper Caroline and Marcus Rachel, Research for Development, A practical
guide. SAGE Publications, London.

Mabogunje and Akin L. (1980). The development process. A spatial perspective. Hutchinson,
London

Medium Term Development Plan for 2010-2013, Lower Manya District

Medium Term Development Plan for 2010-2013, Lower Manya District

Michael D. Meyer, Eric J. Miller (2001). Urban Transportation Planning (second edition).
Mc Graw-Hill Publication.

Nezic, T. and A.K. William (1996). A market and Community Development in West Africa, A
Community Development Journal VoL. 31 No 1 1996.

Opoku, J.Y (2000). A short Guide to Research Writing in the Social Science and Education,
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Maple Consult and Cersgis (2010). Planning Standards and Zoning Regulations in Ghana Vol. II
(Fourth Draft), Accra

Owen, W. (1964) Strategy for mobility, Washington, Brookings Institute

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Owusu, G (2005). The role of district capitals in regional development: linking small towns,
rural-urban linkages and decentralization in Ghana, PhD. Thesis, Department of Geography,
Faculty of Social Sciences and Technology Management, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology, NTNU Trondheim.

Rajendra, C. (2005). Research Methodology, S.B Nangia for APH Publishing

Corporation, New Delhi

Techiman District Council, (1990), Techiman: Location and Population, Techiman, Ghana

Twumasi P.A (2001). Social Research in Rural Communities (second edition). Ghana University
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Tumbuan, W., L. Kawet and Y. Shiratake (2006), Significance of Traditional Markets and Super
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67
 APPENDICES

Appendix A - Interview with Transport Service Providers

I am carrying out this survey to establish the nexus between Transportation services and the
development of Traditional Markets. Your corporation will be very much needed, as information
given will only be used for academic purpose.

Name of District Assembly: ...........................................................................................

1. Gender: Female [ ] Male [ ]

2. Age.........................................................................................................................................

3. Name of Town....................................................................................................................

4. What type of goods do you transport to the market?

........................................................................................................................................................

5. Where do you transport the goods from?

 Within settlement

 Outside settlement (please specify) ……………………………........................................

6. Which roads do you normally use?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

7. Why do you use the above road(s) often?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

8. What are the conditions of the above roads?

 Good (tarred with drains, no pot holes)

 Fair (tarred but with pot holes)

 Poor (not tarred, no drains)

9. What volume of goods do you transport to the market per market day?

............................................................................................................................................................

68
10. How much do you charge for transporting goods to the market per trip?

…………………………………………………………………………………........

11. What influence these charges?

 Conditions of the road

 Travel distance/Time

 Volume of goods

 Others (please specify).................................................................................

12. What are the major problems you face in the transportation of goods to the market?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

13. What solutions do you suggest to addressing these problems?

……………………………………………………………………………………………….……
………………………………………………………………………………………....….………
Thanks for participating in this project.

69
 Appendix B - Survey of Market Traders

I am carrying out this survey to establish the nexus between Transportation services and the
development of Traditional Markets. Your corporation will be very much needed, as information
given will only be used for academic purpose.

1. Gender: Female [ ] Male [ ]

2. Age......................................................................................................................................

3. Name of Town.....................................................................................................................

4. What goods do you trade at the market?

i. ………………………………………………....................................................................

ii. ………………………………………………....................................................................

iii. ………………………………………………....................................................................

iv. ………………………………………………....................................................................

5. How long have you been trading at this market.

........................................................................................................................................................

6. Where do you buy your goods?

 Within settlement

 Outside settlement (please specify) ……………………………………..........................

7. By what mode do you transport your goods?

 Road (If roads, please answer questions 5-9)

 Rail

 Others (Specify) ……………….......................................................................................

8. Which roads do you use often?

………………………………………………………………………………………………...……
…….....………………………………………………………………...............................................

70
9. Why do you use it/them often?
 Conditions (If conditions, answer question 7)

 Proximity to source of goods

10. How will you assess the conditions of the road(s)?

 Good (tarred with drains, no pot holes)

 Fair (tarred but with pot holes)

 Poor (not tarred, no drains)

11. Does the condition of the roads affect the transportation of goods to market centres?

 Yes

 No

12. If yes, what problems do you face in the transportation of goods?

 Long travel time

 Transport Cost

 Inconvenience

 Others (please specify) ……………………………………………………

13. What solutions do you suggest to addressing these problems?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Thanks for participating in this project.

71
Appendix C - Interview with the Department of Feeder Roads

I am carrying out this survey to establish the nexus between Transportation services and the
development of Traditional Markets. Your corporation will be very much needed, as information
given will only be used for academic purpose.

Name of District Assembly:..............................................................................................................

Designation of officer granting interview.………………................................................................

1. Gender: Female [ ] Male [ ]

2. Age........................................................................................................................................

3. Name of Town.......................................................................................................................

4. What is the role of the Department in the management of road transport in the District?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

5. What are the general conditions of roads in the District?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

6. How will the Department describe the conditions of the road linking agriculture
production centres to the markets?

 Good (tarred with drains, no pot holes)

 Fair (tarred but with pot holes)

 Poor (not tarred, no drains)

7. Are there any conscious initiatives by the Department to enhance easy movement of
goods from agriculture production centres to the markets?

 Yes

 No

8. If yes, specify

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.........................................................................................................................……..………..……
……………………………………………………………………….….……………......…………

9. If no, why

............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................

10. Does the Department have any future plans of road improvements in the District,
especially roads linking agriculture production centres and the markets?

 Yes

 No

11. If yes, specify

...........................................................................................................................................................
……………………………………………………………………………………….........………
12. If no, why?

............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
.

13. What are the major challenges facing the Department in the management of roads in the
District?

............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................

14. What solutions do you suggest to addressing these problems?

73
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Thanks for participating in this project.

74
Appendix D - Interview with the Agricultural Producers

I am carrying out this survey to establish the nexus between Transportation services and the
development of Traditional Markets. Your corporation will be very much needed, as information
given will only be used for academic purpose.

Name of District Assembly:.............................................................................................

1. Gender: Female [ ] Male [ ]

2. Age..................................................................................................................................

3. Married Yes [ ] No [ ]

4. Name of Town.........................................................................................................

5. What is the size of your farm (in acres)?

……………………………………………………………………………………......................

6. What commodities do you produce?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

7. What is your total production per season?

…………………………………………………………………………………….......................

8. Where do you market your produce?

………………………………………………………………………………………...................

9. Do your encounter any post-harvest loses.

 Yes

 No

10. If yes, how and why?

75
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

11. What percentage of the total produce ends up in the market?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

12. By what mode do you transport your goods?

 Road (If roads, please answer questions 9-10)

 Rail

 Others (Specify) ………………..................................................................

13. Which roads do you use often?

............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................

14. Why do you use it/them often?

 Conditions (If conditions, answer question 10 -12)

 Proximity to marketplace.

 Others (please specify)………………………………………………....................

15. How will you assess the conditions of the road(s)?

 Good (tarred with drains, no pot holes)

 Fair (tarred but with pot holes)

 Poor (not tarred, no drains)

16. How has the condition of the road influenced the pricing of the produce to the market
traders?

............................................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................................
17. What are the general problem(s) you face in transporting your produce to the market?
76
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
….…………………………………………………………………………………………………

18. What solutions do you suggest in addressing this problem(s)

............................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................................

Thanks for participating in this project.

77
Appendix E - Observation Chart

Table 1. Observation Chart for current state of markets and commodities.

Indicators Remarks

Spatial location of market

 Size

 Boundary

Market Infrastructure

 Toilet and Urinal

 School

 Accessibility in the
market

 Drainage system

 Canteen

 Electricity

 Potable water

Commodities

 Consumable

 Services

 Manufactured

78
Appendix F - Interview with the Town and Country Planning Department

I am carrying out this survey to establish the nexus between Transportation services and the
development of Traditional Markets. Your corporation will be very much needed, as information
given will only be used for academic purpose.

Name of District Assembly: ..................................................................................................

Designation of officer granting interview.……………….....................................................
Professional background of officer…....................................................................................
1. Gender: Female [ ] Male [ ]

2. Age.............................................................................................................................

3. Married Yes[ ] No[ ]

4. Name of Town ……………………………………………………………………..

5. What are the roles of the Department in the management of the District?

............................................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................................

6. Do you have a planning scheme for Agormanya/Asesewa?

 Yes

 No (please answer question 4)

7. If yes, does the location of the Agormanya/Asesewa markets conform to the planning
scheme?

 Yes

 No

8. If no, why?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

9. Do you have any plans of relocating the Agormanya/Asesewa Markets?

 Yes

 No
79
10. If yes, where and why?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

11. How has the Agormanya/Asesewa Markets contributed to the development of the
District?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

12. In your view, what are the major challenges facing the Agormanya/Markets in its
development?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

13. What solutions do you suggest to addressing this problem(s)?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………

14. Any maps to show the growth process of the Agormanya/Asesewa towns (especially
before and after the establishment of the markets)

Thanks for participating in this project

80
Appendix G - Interview with Local chief of Agormanya/Asesewa

I am carrying out this survey to establish the nexus between Transportation services and the
development of Traditional Markets. Your corporation will be very much needed, as information
given will only be used for academic purpose.

Name of District Assembly:...............................................................................................

Designation of officer granting interview.………………..................................................

1. How did the market start or evolved.

2. What factor influenced the location of the market at Agormanya/Asesewa?

3. How has the market influenced the development of Agormanya/Asesewa and other
nearby communities?

4. What are the major challenges facing the Agormanya/Markets in its development?

5. What solutions do you suggest to addressing this problem(s)?

Thanks for participating in this project

81
Appendix H - Questionnaire for the Budget and Finance Department

I am carrying out this survey to establish the nexus between Transportation services and the
development of Traditional Markets. Your corporation will be very much needed, as information
given will only be used for academic purpose.

Name of District/Municipal Assembly: ................................................................................

Designation of officer granting interview.……………….....................................................

1. Gender: Female [ ] Male [ ]

2. Age.............................................................................................................................

3. Married Yes[ ] No[ ]

4. Name of Town…………………………………………………………………….

5. Please fill the table below:

Table 1. Revenue from Agormanya/Asesewa Market since 2000-2010 (in Ghana Cedis)

Year 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Revenue

6. Please fill the table below:

Table 2. Proportion of Revenue from the Market vis-à-vis the Total Internally Generated Fund

Year Total IGF % of IGF from Market

Revenue

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

82
2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

7. What are the major challenges faced by the Department in the mobilisation of revenue,
especially from the market?
8. ………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………

9. What solutions do you suggest to addressing this problem(s)?

10. ………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………

Thanks for participating in this project

83
Appendix I - Interview with the Market Traders Association

I am carrying out this survey to establish the nexus between Transportation services and the
development of Traditional Markets. Your corporation will be very much needed, as information
given will only be used for academic purpose.

Name of District Assembly: ................................................................................................

Designation of officer granting interview.………………...................................................

1. . Gender: Female [ ] Male [ ]

2. Age.............................................................................................................................

3. Married Yes[ ] No[ ]

4. Name of Town ……………………………………………………………………..

5. What goods or services do you trade at the market?

……………………………………………............................................................................

6. How many traders sell in this market?

…………………………........................................................................................................

7. How many of the traders are registered?

………………………………………………………………………………………………

8. What are the major challenges faced by your members in the transportation of goods
from agriculture production centres to the markets?

………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………

9. What are the major problems your members encounter in the market?

………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………

10. What solutions do you suggest to addressing the problem(s) above?

………………………………………………………………………………………………

Thanks for participating in this project.

84
1-23,25-28,31-49,51-

85