The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has refuted claims circulating among sections of the public that affected stakeholders were excluded from consultations regarding the proposed 24-Hour Market project at Agbogbloshie.
In a press release signed by the Head of Public Affairs, Gilbert Nii Ankrah, on behalf of the Metro Chief Executive, the Assembly stated that it has engaged in sustained dialogue and consensus-building with key groups for over three months.
“The AMA, therefore, wishes to state categorically that the project has not been pursued without consultation, but through sustained dialogue and consensus-building aimed at incorporating and addressing the concerns of affected persons before physical works commence,” the statement read.
Led by the Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, the Assembly has consulted traditional authorities, market leaders, traders, and occupants in the project area, including the leadership of the Yam Market, Nzema Market, and Cargo Station.
The engagements covered project design, land requirements, trader movements, business continuity, and measures to minimise economic disruption.
According to the AMA, key meetings began on July 9, 2026, when the Mayor briefed the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, and the Ga Traditional Council on the proposed market and land requirements. On the same day, the Mayor met Agbogbloshie traders to formally introduce the contractor.
Subsequent meetings took place on July 13 with the leadership of the Agbogbloshie Yam Market at City Hall, and on August 4 with local chiefs under the 24-Hour Economy initiative. A nine-member committee was later set up to oversee the process.
Following these discussions, the Assembly served a one-month notice ending August 31, 2026, to traders occupying portions 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 equivalent to 0.48 acres within the Yam Market area. It emphasized that the exercise is not intended to arbitrarily displace traders, but to reach practical arrangements that protect their livelihoods.
The Assembly revealed that participating representatives received transportation allowances of at least GH¢3,000 per meeting to facilitate their involvement.
The parties have agreed to maintain direct engagement through recognised leadership to prevent misinformation and speculation.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, the AMA noted that the proposed 24-Hour Market will deliver modern infrastructure, improve sanitation and safety, better organise trading, and create employment opportunities in Accra.
The Assembly urged the public to rely solely on official communication as engagements continue ahead of main construction works.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
