Accra: Traders at Agbogbloshie have made a formal appeal to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) to reconsider its August 28, 2026, deadline for vacating parts of the market designated for redevelopment.
According to Ghana Web, the traders expressed a willingness to support the redevelopment and renovation of the market but emphasized the need for proper engagement with authorities. They are requesting sufficient time and alternative arrangements for those affected by the relocation. Concerns have been raised about the uncertainty of the redevelopment plans and the potential impact on their livelihoods.
One trader clarified that the redevelopment would not affect the entire market, specifying that only certain parts would be impacted. They noted, "I am not part of the affected traders. They are not demolishing the entire market; they are taking part of it."
Another trader acknowledged the necessity for improvements due to frequent flooding issues. "Whenever it rains, this place gets flooded. If it rains and a customer wants to come and buy something, they cannot access the market. So, we agree that the market needs to be renovated," the trader remarked.
Nevertheless, some traders have reservations about the proposed redevelopment, particularly the introduction of a 24-hour economy market. "The AMA wants to renovate the place, but we do not want any 24-hour economy market at Agbogbloshie. We do not want it here. He can take it elsewhere. We at the Nzema Market do not want it, and we appeal to him to rescind the decision," stated another trader.
For many affected traders, the primary concern is the lack of adequate notice and clarity regarding relocation. One trader pointed out, "Development is good, but the problem is that we should have been informed in advance. Where are we going to relocate to? We need enough time, and there should be a list of the affected traders for relocation."
Another trader appealed to the government, emphasizing their long-standing reliance on the market for their livelihoods. "We voted for the NDC, and we have been trading here for a very long time. We want the government to rescind its decision because we have nowhere to go," the trader added.
The traders are calling for more engagement with the AMA and the government before the August 28 deadline. They believe that a detailed relocation plan is essential to prevent loss of income, insisting that while development is necessary, their livelihoods and concerns must be considered.