The Langtang North Local Government Council in Plateau State has commenced major infrastructural upgrades at Zamko Market as part of efforts to improve security, sanitation and general market administration in the area.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Kum Precious, who said the intervention forms part of a broader programme to modernise commercial centres within the council.
According to the statement, the projects currently underway include the drilling of a solar-powered borehole, the construction of a perimeter fence and the completion of an administrative block to enhance coordination among traders and revenue officers.
Already, drilling work has begun at the market, and the water facility is expected to serve traders, butchers and livestock handlers at both the main market and the adjoining Zongo Cattle Market.
The council explained that access to clean water will improve hygiene and reduce challenges associated with livestock trading, especially as the location receives large numbers of animals weekly.
Market leaders have expressed support for the project. One of the executive members of the Zamko Market Cattle Association described the intervention as timely, noting that water scarcity and poor coordination had been longstanding concerns for traders.
“We are deeply grateful to Hon. Pirfa Tyem for not only bringing this solar borehole but also ensuring the market is fenced and better managed,” he said. “This will improve livestock trade and strengthen revenue generation for the council.”
Meanwhile, the council said the perimeter fence will help regulate movement in and out of the market, prevent theft and improve monitoring of revenue points.
The administrative block, which is now at about 35 per cent completion, will house market management offices and serve as a central hub for documentation and regulation when finished.
The statement also revealed that plans are underway to construct a police post, provide modern toilet facilities and create a clearly demarcated cattle trading zone to enhance sanitation and reduce congestion.
Speaking on the development, the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Pirfa Jingfa Tyem, said the initiative was aimed at repositioning Zamko Market into a well-structured commercial centre where trade can thrive in a safe and orderly environment.
“Our focus is to make Zamko Market a model of orderliness, hygiene and transparency — a market where traders can thrive and revenue can be properly accounted for,” he said.
The council added that the intervention aligns with its long-term development agenda to improve rural trade networks and strengthen the livestock value chain within the local government.
