Agbogbloshie 24-hour market project followed three months of consultations- AMA

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has dismissed allegations that stakeholders affected by the proposed 24-hour market at Agbogbloshie were not consulted prior to the project. The Assembly stated it had held discussions with traditional authorities, market leaders, traders, occupants, and other stakeholders over the course of more than three months.

The AMA emphasized these consultations were led by the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey. Discussions centered on project design, land requirements, trader movement, business continuity, and measures to minimize disruption. The Assembly mentioned key stakeholders included the Yam Market, Nzema Market, and Cargo Station leadership.

On July 9, 2026, Mayor Allotey briefed the Ga Mantse and Ga Traditional Council on the proposed market, including land needs and implementation plans. The AMA also noted a meeting with Agbogbloshie Yam Market leadership on July 13 to discuss the proposed use of some land currently occupied by the market. On August 4, the AMA hosted another meeting with chiefs and traditional leaders at Agbogbloshie as part of the ongoing consultations under the 24-Hour Economy initiative.

Subsequently, a nine-member committee was established to oversee various aspects of the project. The Assembly announced a one-month notice ending on August 31 to traders and occupants in project areas. Regarding land, the AMA revealed about four acres would be needed for the project, with approximately 3.2 acres already identified, including three plots within the existing Yam Market area.

The land requirement was a significant topic in consultations with Yam Market leadership, who sought practical arrangements for redevelopment while preserving affected traders' livelihoods. The Assembly assured stakeholders would receive transportation allowances of at least GH¢3,000 per meeting. It reported stakeholders raised concerns, sought clarification, and proposed solutions during these meetings, including land needs, trader movement, and business continuity.

The Assembly highlighted continued dialogue and cooperation with stakeholders for the project's implementation. Any arrangements affecting existing traders would be handled through direct engagement with recognized leadership. Therefore, the AMA rejected claims that stakeholders were ignored or excluded from the consultation process, maintaining it involved various groups and individuals over more than three months.

The Assembly said the 24-hour market would provide modern infrastructure, extended commercial activity, improved sanitation, safety, better organization, and employment opportunities in Accra. The Assembly pledged to continue engaging Yam Market leadership, traders, traditional authorities, and other stakeholders before main construction begins.