The market is expected to develop into a major commercial hub in the area because of its strategic location, about 15 kilometres from Leo in neighbouring Burkina Faso, making it a potential centre for cross-border trade.

The market, which operates a day after the Tumu market, also has facilities for quarantine and veterinary services, a development expected to support the establishment of a livestock market serving traders from both Ghana and Burkina Faso.

Speaking at a ceremony to mark the reopening of the market, Kuoro Osman Deiwia Nankpa III, Paramount Chief of the Gandawii Traditional Area, called on residents to support and patronise the market to ensure its success for the benefit of the area and the country at large.

He also appealed to stakeholders, including traditional authorities, to institute punitive measures against individuals engaged in unlawful activities that could undermine the growth and sustainability of the market.

Kuoro Nankpa commended both past and present District Chief Executives (DCEs) for their efforts towards the reopening of the market.

Kuoro Amidu Borsu, Chief of Kupulima, urged residents and natives of the area to patronise the market to help create business and trading opportunities for women and the youth.

Mr. Forkah Mahamud, a former DCE for the area, appealed to the District Assembly and the Member of Parliament to lobby for the establishment of a 24-hour market model in the community.

Mr. Fuseini Gbene, the Sissala West District Chief Executive, expressed appreciation to both previous and current governments for their contributions towards the improvement and reopening of the market.

According to him, the government’s 24-hour economy initiative had created opportunities for markets such as Kupulima to receive investment and infrastructural support.

He urged community leaders and residents to preserve the facility to help improve the socio-economic livelihoods of the people.

The DCE assured traders and residents of adequate security at the market to guarantee the safety of patrons and business operators.

He further encouraged small ruminant and poultry sellers in the area to trade at the Kupulima market instead of taking their animals to the Leo market in Burkina Faso.

Mr. Mohammed Adams Sukparu, Member of Parliament for the area, also encouraged residents to patronise the market and desist from illicit and unlawful trade activities that could threaten the peace and security of both Ghana and Burkina Faso.

Chief Salam Sibiri, Chief of Leo in Burkina Faso, who attended the ceremony, described the market as a facility meant to unite people and promote trade among communities across the two neighbouring countries.