First Lady Lordina Mahama has given her assurance to traders at the 31st December Makola Market that the upcoming demolition and redevelopment project will be managed with care and respect for their livelihoods. Her involvement comes in response to increasing worries among traders, who are concerned that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) plans to demolish parts of the market without first securing an alternative trading venue for those affected.
These concerns led the traders to submit a petition to President John Dramani Mahama, seeking government support and voicing fears that the redevelopment could jeopardise their income and disrupt activities at one of Accra’s busiest markets. The prospect of demolition has caused anxiety, with many traders worried about being displaced and facing financial difficulties if the project moves forward without adequate provisions.
During a visit to the market, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey relayed Mrs. Lordina Mahama’s assurance that the government is committed to handling the process in a compassionate and inclusive way. “I came here on the instructions of our mother, Her Excellency Mrs Lordina Mahama. And being the mother she is, she asked that I come here to listen to them and then see the best way forward. The market men and women are not against the redevelopment of this place.
“However, they are looking at how it can be done such that they will not lose their livelihoods, and that is of concern to the state as well. We are going to sit down and make sure that we make progress devoid of emotions. “I have been in touch with the mayor, and we will continue. Within these few days, sitting down for some extra days and waiting to hear from each other will not be bad.”
The 31st December Makola Market remains a major commercial hub in the capital, attracting thousands of traders and customers daily. For many of the market women and men, the market serves as their primary means of livelihood, supporting families, paying school fees, and sustaining businesses built over several years.
Source: Nii Ayikwei Okine