The Western Area Rural District Council (WARDC) has officially handed over the newly rehabilitated Newton Market to local traders in a ceremony marked by strong calls for discipline, proper usage of facilities, and an end to street trading.

The event brought together councillors, council officials, market leaders, security personnel, and community stakeholders who described the project as a major step toward improving local commerce and protecting traders from weather-related disruptions.

Councillor Alimatu Kamara emphasised that the facility, which had been earmarked for rehabilitation since last year, should not be left underutilised or treated as mere decoration. She warned that the council would enforce strict measures to eliminate street trading in the area, noting that the market contains 62 tables designed to accommodate traders fairly, with one allocation per vendor. She also raised concern over vandalism, including the reported theft of pump components, cautioning users to protect public property.

Hon. Kemokoh Conteh of the Western Area Rural District Council described the development as timely and beneficial for surrounding communities, including Katy Town, Magbaft, and Fogbo. He urged traders to fully utilise the facility, assuring that business activity would be secured within the market space. He further encouraged cooperation among users and stressed that the market serves as an economic empowerment initiative, particularly for women.

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Chairing the ceremony, a representative of WARDC noted that the rehabilitation was primarily aimed at protecting traders from seasonal rains and improving sanitary conditions within Newton.

The Chairlady of the Newton Market Women, Adama Jah, expressed gratitude on behalf of traders, describing the market as a long-awaited relief after years of hardship, especially during the rainy season.

In his address, the Council Chairman, Kasho J. Holland Cole, thanked all stakeholders, including councillors, police officers, and council technical teams, for their roles in making the project a reality. He stressed that while the market is for the people, it comes with clear regulations.

He announced that all 62 tables will be registered with names and addresses of users, and warned that unsanitary practices would not be tolerated. According to him, traders who fail to maintain cleanliness risk removal from the facility.

The chairman further cautioned against street trading, stating that enforcement will be strict, with security personnel instructed to ensure compliance. Priority, he said, will be given to existing market traders during allocation, while fish sellers will be organised away from the entrance for proper zoning.

Additional measures outlined include partitioning of tables based on business type, installation of solar lighting, improved road access, provision of water facilities, and designated waste disposal areas. He also warned against unauthorised construction within the market and reminded traders of their obligation to pay minimal market dues for maintenance and sustainability.

The rehabilitation of Newton Market is part of broader efforts by WARDC to modernise local markets, strengthen community livelihoods, and improve trading conditions across the Western Area Rural District.