GHATOF demands compensation for 85 businesses affected by La Pleasure Beach demolition

The Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF) has made a strong demand for compensation from authorities, affecting 85 businesses that were demolished at La Pleasure Beach. This decision has raised concerns about the potential loss of 4,000 jobs, predominantly held by women. The federation is insisting that the displaced traders should be given the first opportunity to participate in any redevelopment of the area, questioning why businesses with operating permits were taken down without proper warning.

These businesses have been a part of the local economy for decades, contributing through taxes and tourism levies. GHATOF is pushing for accountability from the relevant district assemblies and public institutions that issued these permits. The president of GHATOF, Seth Ocran, emphasized that pursuing compensation for these traders and advocating for their place in future redevelopment plans is necessary to maintain investor confidence in Ghana's tourism sector.

The demolition has particularly impacted women involved in food vending, general trading, and the sale of arts and crafts. Many traders are lamenting the loss of their main income sources, along with equipment and other investments made for the bustling December festive season, a peak time for tourism-related businesses. GHATOF argues that the consequences of this incident go beyond the loss of physical structures, jeopardizing livelihoods and employment opportunities associated with the beachfront economy.

The federation is urging authorities to address the concerns of these displaced traders as they deliberate on the site's future.