Traders at Ashiaman market in the Greater Accra Region have raised concerns over the redevelopment plan for Ashiaman market, which could potentially lead to a reduction in the number of sheds and stalls to be affected.
They expressed that the proposed project threatens their livelihoods due to the likelihood of most traders being pushed out of business.
Currently, the market accommodates 1,750 sheds, but stakeholders have revealed that the new plan will provide only 320 sheds and 90 stalls.
Speaking at a presser, they highlighted that existing market facilities are essential for their survival; however, this substantial reduction in trading space is expected to displace hundreds of traders, particularly tabletop sellers, significantly affecting their income.
“The land behind the market belongs to the government, yet the assembly has sold some, and individuals have also sold portions, leading to a considerable reduction in market space. We can’t, it will not help us, and many people will die,” they complained bitterly to Augustine Ahiabor of Angel News.
According to agitated market women, they do not oppose the redevelopment project, but they insist that the current layout does not adequately cater to the large number of traders who rely on the facility as their primary source of livelihood.
In response to their concerns, District Chief Executive (DCE) of Ashiaman Municipality, Freeman Tsekpo, has assured the market women that their worries have been noted and efforts will be made to address them accordingly.
“What we say to the women is that engagement is still ongoing, so we beg them to stop the demonstration while we plan on how to achieve a 24-hour economy where everyone will get their fair share,” he added.
The redevelopment forms part of the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) 24-hour economy campaign promise, aimed at establishing a 24-hour market for people of Ashiaman.
Vanessa Elizabeth Nkum
