First Lady Lordina Mahama has assured traders at the 31st December Makola Market that the planned redevelopment and demolition exercise will be carried out with care and consideration for their welfare.
Her assurance comes after growing concerns among traders over plans by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) to demolish parts of the market without first providing an alternative trading space for affected businesses.
Fearing possible displacement and loss of income, the traders petitioned President John Dramani Mahama, calling on government to intervene before the exercise begins.
Many traders say the market is their main source of livelihood, supporting their families, funding their children’s education, and sustaining businesses they have built over many years.
Speaking during a visit to the market, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey said she had been sent by Mrs. Lordina Mahama to engage the traders and help find a solution that protects their interests while allowing the redevelopment project to proceed.
“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,” she stated.
According to her, the traders are not opposed to the redevelopment itself, but are mainly concerned about how the exercise will affect their livelihoods if proper arrangements are not made.
“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,” she added.
Dr. Lartey further assured the traders that government and city authorities would continue consultations to ensure a smooth and humane process.
“I have been in touch with the mayor and we will continue. Within these few days, sitting down some extra days and waiting to hear each other will not be bad,” she noted.
The 31st December Makola Market remains one of Accra’s busiest commercial centres, attracting thousands of traders and customers daily. Concerns over the proposed demolition have therefore sparked anxiety among many business owners who depend on the market for survival.
