Government has suspended plans to demolish sections of Makola Market for redevelopment following strong resistance from traders who say the exercise could threaten their livelihoods and businesses. The decision follows a protest by traders who petitioned authorities to reconsider what they described as a forceful eviction from the market, citing inadequate consultation ahead of the planned demolition.
Context of the Dispute
The traders argued that many livelihoods stand to be affected if the redevelopment proceeds without clear engagement, relocation arrangements, and a mutually agreed roadmap. This resistance highlights a common tension between urban development projects and the needs of existing informal economies.
Ministerial Intervention and Dialogue
Following discussions after a visit to the market on Saturday, May 16, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, announced that the government has put the demolition exercise on hold. Consultations with the affected traders are now set to continue.
Addressing the traders during her visit, the Minister stated that their concerns would be reviewed carefully before any further action is taken. “I will not urge the Monday demolition to commerce. We will not rush to carry out any action because there are many issues involved,” she said.
The Minister emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution through dialogue. “Based on what we have heard, it is better that we create a clear path for dialogue and resolve the matter peacefully, because the current situation may not be acceptable to everyone,” she added.
She assured traders of the government’s commitment to dialogue, promising to engage all stakeholders to find common ground. “Once we sit down, talk, and reach a common understanding, we will be in a better position to proceed,” she affirmed.
Acting on instructions from John Dramani Mahama, the Minister indicated a return to the drawing board. “I have also been in touch with the mayor, and we will continue the discussions. Yes, we are going back to the drawing board. We will assess what can be revised, what needs more emphasis, and how best to move forward,” she explained.
She urged all parties to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions, acknowledging that the traders’ issues appeared genuine and deserved proper consideration.
Traders’ Stance on Development
The traders welcomed the Minister’s intervention, describing the engagement as a positive step. Ebenezer Birikorang, speaking on behalf of the traders’ association, clarified that they are not opposed to development.
“We have never said we are against development. This market has seen renovations before, and we understand that development is necessary. But where there are human costs, there must also be dialogue so that people’s concerns are addressed,” Birikorang stated.
Economic and Livelihood Concerns
Birikorang highlighted the significant economic impact of abrupt displacement. Many traders have invested years into their businesses within the market.
“Some have worked in this market for over eight years. Asking them to move suddenly affects their livelihoods. That is why all stakeholders must sit together and agree on a way forward that protects those affected,” he explained.
Concerns were raised particularly for those servicing loans or expecting imported goods, whose operations could be severely disrupted by a sudden relocation. This underscores the need for a phased and supportive transition plan.
Looking Ahead
The suspension of the demolition allows for crucial dialogue between government officials and Makola Market traders. The coming days will be critical in determining whether a mutually agreeable plan for redevelopment can be forged. The focus will likely shift to the specifics of relocation, compensation, and the timeline for any future development, aiming to balance modernization with the protection of thousands of livelihoods dependent on the market.
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