Accra, Ghana – May 11, 2026 – Traders at Accra’s Kantamanto Market will now pay an annual Business Operating Permit (BOP) of GHC100 per shop, following a new agreement between the Kantamanto Obroniwawu Businesses Association (KOBA) and the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA). This significant reduction, effective immediately, aims to alleviate financial pressures on market members still rebuilding after a devastating fire in January 2025.
Context of Financial Strain
The agreement comes after months of intensive negotiations between KOBA and the AMA. The reduced fee acknowledges the ongoing economic challenges faced by Kantamanto traders. Many are still grappling with the aftermath of a major fire that destroyed approximately 60 percent of the market in January 2025.
Compounding these recovery efforts are rising bale prices for second-hand clothing and a perceived decline in the quality of goods. These factors have placed considerable financial strain on individual traders and the market as a whole.
Details of the Agreement
KOBA General Secretary Adwutuwwm Atta Manu confirmed the agreement in a joint statement. He highlighted that the new fee structure represents a substantial saving for market members.
The arrangement saves members a total of GHC524.00 compared to previous fee levels. Mr. Atta Manu expressed satisfaction with the outcome, attributing it to a strong working relationship with the AMA.
“We are aware of many financial constraints impacting our members, from increased bale prices. We are happy to have reached this agreement with AMA,” stated Mr. Atta Manu. He emphasized KOBA’s commitment to representing the best interests of its constituents.
Kantamanto Market and KOBA’s Role
Kantamanto Market is one of the largest second-hand clothing markets globally. The devastating fire in January 2025 destroyed vast sections, leading to immense losses for countless traders who lost their entire stock.
In response to the crisis, KOBA was established in July 2025. The association now represents approximately 30,000 traders and retailers across all 16 sections of the market. The Or Foundation, a Ghanaian NGO, provides support to KOBA.
Implications for Traders and the Market
The reduction in the Business Operating Permit fee is expected to provide much-needed financial relief. This measure could help traders reinvest in their businesses and accelerate their recovery process.
Furthermore, the agreement signifies a step towards more formalized cooperation between the market’s traders and the city’s administrative body. It encourages traders to engage with AMA representatives for permit renewals.
KOBA executives are urging all market members to cooperate fully with AMA officials. They view this as a collaborative effort toward rebuilding and fostering unity within the Kantamanto community.
Looking Ahead
The success of this agreement will likely be measured by the pace of recovery within Kantamanto Market and the sustained cooperation between KOBA and the AMA. Continued dialogue and support will be crucial as traders navigate ongoing economic challenges, including fluctuating bale prices and import costs. Observers will be watching to see how this financial relief impacts the broader economic landscape of the second-hand clothing trade in Accra and beyond.
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