AMA CLARIFIES CONSULTATIONS ON PROPOSED 24-HOUR MARKET PROJECT AT AGBOGBLOSHIE

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has refuted public claims that it excluded affected stakeholders from consultations on the proposed 24-Hour Market Project at Agbogbloshie, detailing over three months of extensive engagements with key groups.

In an official statement issued on Wednesday, the Assembly clarified that the initiative, led by the Mayor of Accra, Mr Michael Kpakpo Allotey, involved traditional leaders, market executives, traders, and transportation representatives, including leadership from the Yam Market, Nzema Market, and Cargo Station to address land requirements, trader movements, and economic continuity.

According to the press statement, the Assembly engaged major stakeholders on three separate dates: July 9, July 13 and August 4, 2026. 

On July 9, 2026, the Mayor briefed the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, and the Ga Traditional Council on the project layout and land requirements. On the same day, he met with Agbogbloshie traders to formally introduce the project contractor.

The July 13, 2026 meeting allowed AMA officials to engage leadership from the Agbogbloshie Yam Market at City Hall on allocating portions of their current land for the facility.

On August 4, 2026, the Assembly met with local chiefs and traditional leaders under the 24-Hour Economy initiative, resulting in the constitution of a nine-member oversight committee.

Following these meetings, the Assembly served a one-month notice ending August 31, 2026, to traders occupying affected sections of the project site.

The AMA clarified that the full project requires approximately four acres of land, with 3.2 acres identified so far, including three plots totalling 0.48 acres within the existing Yam Market area. 

The Assembly emphasised that the process is not designed to arbitrarily displace vendors, but to reach practical arrangements that protect legitimate livelihoods.

To support participation, representatives attending stakeholder meetings were provided transportation allowances of not less than GH₵3,000 per session.

The Assembly reiterated that the 24-Hour Market Project aims to deliver modern commercial infrastructure, improve sanitation and safety, organise local trade, and create employment opportunities within the capital. 

The public has been urged to disregard unverified claims and rely on official communications from the Assembly.

Bala Ali, ISD