Kwabenya traders protest proposed 24-hour market structure

Traders at the Kwabenya Market in Ghana have vehemently opposed proposals to introduce a 24-hour operation, expressing concern that such a move could jeopardize their livelihoods. During a protest, some traders donned red clothing to convey their message, vowing to fight any attempts by the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GEMA) to remove them from their stalls to make way for the new initiative.

According to the traders, the market is already spacious enough for the GEMA to designate a segment for the 24-hour market without displacing current vendors. An interview with Adom News revealed that many of the protesters are single mothers who fear losing their primary source of income would further plunge their families into poverty.

They claim that the Assembly has already designated certain shops for immediate removal, which has intensified their apprehensions about the potential impact on their livelihoods. The traders are now urging the authorities to reevaluate the eviction plan and seek a mutually beneficial solution that allows the 24-hour market initiative to proceed without displacing them.

Some traders even accused officials of physically assaulting them during a prior meeting aimed at resolving the dispute. The affected traders are demanding further dialogue with the Assembly, firmly insisting that their economic well-being must be taken into account before any demolition or removal activities are undertaken.