New facility expected to boost commerce and improve conditions for hundreds of women marketers
By: Andrew B Weah
IPNEWS: In what residents described as a major milestone for grassroots development in District #9, Montserrado County District #9 Representative Frank Saah Foko has officially dedicated the newly constructed Lakpazee Market, providing traders with a modern facility aimed at improving business activities and economic opportunities in the community.
The colorful dedication ceremony attracted scores of market women, community leaders, youth groups, local residents, and political supporters who gathered to celebrate the completion of a project that many said would significantly improve the working conditions of traders, especially women.
Speaking during the event, Representative Foko reflected on his long-standing relationship with market women and emphasized the critical role they played in his political journey.
According to him, traders from Lakpazee, Comedian Community, and other parts of the district stood firmly by his side during his campaigns and reelection efforts, making the completion of the market a personal commitment he was determined to fulfill.
“The market women stood by me and believed in me. Today, I am proud that together we can celebrate the completion of this important project,” Foko said.
The lawmaker disclosed that the project carries deep personal significance because both of his parents were marketers. He noted that his upbringing gave him firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced daily by petty traders striving to support their families.
“My mother and father sold in the market, so I know the difficulties our women face. This project is about creating a better environment for them to do business and improve their lives,” he said.
Foko acknowledged public concerns over delays in completing the facility but explained that he intentionally refused to rush the project simply for political recognition.
According to him, his office wanted to ensure that the structure met acceptable standards before being handed over to the community.
“We were ready to dedicate the market earlier, but I said no. I wanted the market completed in a way that would truly satisfy the people who will use it. This is not just another political project; it is a long-term investment in our mothers and families,” he stated.
The representative praised the patience and resilience of the market women who endured difficult trading conditions while construction was underway.
A major highlight of the program came when the Political Leader of the Movement for Progressive Change, Simeon Freeman, announced a financial support package of US$3,000 for traders operating in the market.
Freeman commended Representative Foko for completing the project and honoring the contributions of leaders who previously served the district.
He stressed that true leadership is demonstrated through tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens.
“Building a market is one thing, but helping the women have capital to do business is another,” Freeman said.
He disclosed that US$1,000 would be made available immediately to traders, while an additional US$2,000 would be provided later, bringing the total support package to US$3,000.
The announcement was greeted with excitement and applause from marketers, many of whom described the donation as timely assistance amid current economic challenges.
Receiving the facility on behalf of traders, Lakpazee Market Superintendent Madam Tobey expressed profound appreciation to Representative Foko and all those who contributed to the successful completion of the project.
She said the new market represents a dream come true for many women who have struggled for years to conduct business in overcrowded and challenging conditions.
“We are overwhelmed with joy. This market will provide a better environment for us to work and support our families. We thank Representative Foko and everyone who made this possible,” she said.
Madam Tobey also appealed for continued support to address other challenges confronting traders and called for sustained investment in market infrastructure throughout the district.
The newly dedicated Lakpazee Market is expected to serve hundreds of traders and customers from surrounding communities. Residents believe the facility will not only improve sanitation and safety but also stimulate local economic activity by providing a more organized and conducive trading environment.
For many attendees, the project stands as a visible symbol of community-centered leadership and a reminder that investments in local markets can have a direct impact on the livelihoods of ordinary Liberians.
