Traders at the Agbogbloshie Market in Accra have appealed to the government to provide them with an alternative trading location before they are removed from the area.
The appeal follows a one-month eviction notice issued to traders by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) as authorities prepare to redevelop the area.
The site has been earmarked for the construction of a proposed 24-Hour Economy Market, part of the government’s broader plans to expand economic activities beyond the normal closing hours.
The traders, however, say they need adequate arrangements to be made before the eviction is carried out. They fear that removing them without providing another place to operate could disrupt their livelihoods and affect their ability to support their families.
For many of the traders, Agbogbloshie has been an important commercial centre where they have operated for years and built their businesses.
They are therefore asking the government and the AMA to engage them and identify a suitable location where they can continue their activities while the redevelopment project proceeds.
They are also calling for clear information on the proposed project, including when construction is expected to begin and what arrangements will be made for affected traders.
The one-month notice has increased pressure on traders to find alternative arrangements, with many hoping that government will intervene before the deadline expires.
The traders say they are not opposed to development but want a solution that allows them to continue earning a living while making way for the planned project.
