Accra: Traders at the Madina Main Market have raised concerns about the proposed introduction of a 24-hour market system, saying the government must first address challenges such as rising prices of goods, inflation, and low sales. The concerns come amid the ongoing plans to demolish old market structures in some parts of the country to make way for new facilities under the proposed 24-hour market initiative, which has resulted in the displacement of several traders.
According to Ghana Web, the Queen Mother of the Madina Main Market, Esi Yeboah, expressed optimism about the initiative, suggesting that a 24-hour market could create more jobs, reduce unemployment, and improve sales for traders. She highlighted the current lack of space for traders and suggested that the extended hours could benefit future generations by providing more opportunities for business engagement.
However, while some traders are hopeful about increased business prospects, others are apprehensive about the practical challenges of operating late into the night. Concerns were raised about whether sufficient customer demand exists beyond normal working hours, as well as issues related to security and potential physical exhaustion from extended working hours.
Traders also voiced concerns over the high cost of electricity and shop rents, indicating that they might incur additional expenses for goods that might not sell, thus elevating the risk of financial losses. Despite these concerns, some vendors see potential in the proposed system for offering flexible working opportunities, allowing individuals who cannot trade during the day to work part-time shifts.
Supporters of the 24-hour market system argue it could enable traders to serve customers unable to shop during daytime hours. Nonetheless, traders emphasize that the initiative's success hinges on resolving issues related to security, operating costs, customer demand, and the broader economic environment affecting businesses.