Omanghana
The government has temporarily suspended plans to demolish and redevelop structures at the Agbogbloshie 24-Hour Economy Market following strong resistance from traders over the proposed redevelopment.
The decision was announced on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, by Mahama Ayariga, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, after an engagement with traders and other stakeholders at the market.
The suspension is intended to create space for further consultations between the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), market representatives and other relevant stakeholders before any demolition or redevelopment work proceeds.
Traders Raise Concerns Over Redevelopment Plan
Traders at the Kokomba Yam Market raised concerns about the proposed redevelopment, arguing that they had not been adequately consulted before the plans were introduced.
Market representatives also questioned aspects of the proposed layout and expressed concern about the potential impact of the demolition on businesses and livelihoods.
According to trader spokesperson Mboranam Solomon, approximately 946 structures had been identified for demolition, while traders were seeking greater clarity about relocation arrangements and the final design of the proposed market.
Some traders also said the structures currently being proposed do not correspond with what they understood had previously been promised under the redevelopment initiative.
Government Seeks Joint Approach
Following discussions at the market, Minister Mahama Ayariga said the government’s objective was to improve infrastructure and develop the market rather than unnecessarily disrupt the businesses operating there.
He indicated that government would work with the AMA and market leadership to assess the concerns raised and determine how the redevelopment could proceed with greater stakeholder participation.
The minister’s position effectively places the demolition plans on hold while further consultations take place.
Transport and Land Issues Under Review
The engagement also brought together other government and municipal officials to examine the practical requirements of the proposed project.
Joseph Bukari Nikpe, Minister for Transport, reviewed issues involving transportation within the market, including access routes, logistics and vehicle loading areas.
The discussions are expected to help determine how transport arrangements can be incorporated into any revised market redevelopment plan.
Michael Kpakpo Allotey, Mayor of Accra, also indicated that the AMA would review the land requirements for the project, including issues surrounding the proposed four-acre site.
The mayor’s review is expected to form part of broader discussions between the Assembly, traders and government officials.
Demolition Plans Remain on Hold
With the government announcing the suspension, demolition activities will not proceed while technical teams and market representatives examine the concerns raised by traders.
The consultations are expected to focus on the proposed market layout, the number and location of structures, transportation arrangements, land requirements and measures to minimise disruption to businesses.
Government officials have indicated that the redevelopment process will continue to involve stakeholders as discussions progress.
For traders, the immediate priority remains securing clarity over the project’s design and ensuring that their concerns about their businesses and livelihoods are addressed before redevelopment work resumes.
The government is now expected to work with the AMA and market leadership to develop a mutually acceptable framework for the redevelopment of the Agbogbloshie 24-Hour Economy Market.
Source: Omanghana
