The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) rejected claims that it was targeting the Konkomba community in its redevelopment of Agbogbloshie for a proposed 24‑Hour Market. The Assembly said the project has been preceded by more than three months of consultations with affected traders and other stakeholders.
AMA officials said they have engaged traditional authorities, market leaders, traders and occupants within the project area to discuss land requirements, the movement of traders and measures to minimise disruptions to existing businesses.
The clarification follows accusations by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority in Parliament that the AMA had marked virtually every shop and residential structure occupied by members of the Konkomba community for demolition while leaving other sections of Agbogbloshie untouched. Bimbilla Member of Parliament and former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul, who led the Minority caucus to inspect the area, described the alleged pattern as discriminatory and called on President John Dramani Mahama to stop the planned demolition.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 16, the AMA said consultations began on July 9, when the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, briefed the Ga Mantse and the Ga Traditional Council on the project. The Assembly also engaged Agbogbloshie traders, the Yam Market leadership and traditional leaders, leading to the formation of a nine‑member committee to support the consultation process.
The AMA said approximately four acres are required for the project, with 3.2 acres identified so far, including 0.48 acres within the existing Yam Market. A one‑month notice ending August 31 was subsequently issued to traders and occupants within parts of the identified project area.
The Assembly insists the project is not intended to arbitrarily displace traders and says discussions will continue to protect affected livelihoods while facilitating the redevelopment. Separate engagements have also been held with the leadership and representatives of the Yam Market over the affected portion of land.
AMA said there is currently an understanding among the parties on the need for continued dialogue and consultation throughout the implementation of the project. Arrangements affecting existing traders will be handled through direct engagement with their recognised leadership, while information on major project decisions will continue to be communicated through established stakeholder structures.
“The proposed 24‑Hour Market is expected to provide modern infrastructure to support extended commercial activity, improve sanitation and safety, better organise trading, and create employment and economic opportunities in Accra,” the statement added.
AMA will keep stakeholders updated as the redevelopment progresses and will maintain open channels for further input from traders and community leaders.
