Government halts Makola Market demolition after traders’ resistance
The government has suspended plans to demolish parts of the Makola Market for redevelopment following strong opposition from traders who argued that the exercise would threaten their businesses and livelihoods.
The decision comes after traders protested against the planned demolition and petitioned authorities to reconsider what they described as a forceful eviction without adequate consultation.
According to the traders, the redevelopment process should not proceed without proper engagement, clear relocation plans and a mutually agreed roadmap to protect affected businesses.
During a visit to the market on Saturday, May 16, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, announced that the demolition exercise had been put on hold to allow further consultations with the traders.
Addressing the aggrieved traders, the Minister stated that the planned demolition scheduled for Monday would no longer proceed as authorities seek to review the concerns raised.
“I will not urge the Monday demolition to commence. We will not rush to carry out any action because there are many issues involved. Based on what we have heard, it is better that we create a clear path for dialogue and resolve the matter peacefully, because the current situation may not be acceptable to everyone,” she said.
She assured the traders that the government remains committed to dialogue and would engage all stakeholders to find a lasting solution to the impasse.
According to the Minister, the government will reassess the steps taken so far and determine the best approach moving forward.
“Yes, we are going back to the drawing board. I came here on the instructions of John Dramani Mahama, and because concerns have been raised, I will return to the Metro authorities to review all the steps taken so far. We will assess what can be revised, what needs more emphasis, and how best to move forward,” she added.
She also appealed to the traders to remain calm as discussions continue.
The traders welcomed the intervention, describing it as a positive step toward resolving the dispute, while insisting that proper consultations should have taken place before the redevelopment plan was announced.
Speaking on behalf of the traders’ association, Ebenezer Birikorang said the traders are not opposed to development but want authorities to consider the human and economic impact of relocation.
“We have never said we are against development. This market has seen renovations before, and we understand that development is necessary. But where there are human costs, there must also be dialogue so that people’s concerns are addressed,” he stated.
Mr. Birikorang explained that many traders have spent years building their businesses at the market, with some operating there for more than eight years.
He warned that any abrupt displacement could negatively affect traders, especially those repaying loans or expecting imported goods tied to their businesses.
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