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The Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, has led engagements with traders of the 31st December Market following concerns raised over proposed relocation arrangements and activities affecting their operations.
The engagement formed part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to ensure continuous stakeholder consultation and a smooth transition process for affected traders.
During the interaction, the market women appealed to the Ministry not to undertake any abrupt eviction or relocation exercise, stressing the need for adequate time to relocate their businesses and inform their customers in order to minimise disruptions to their livelihoods.
Hon. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah assured the traders of government’s commitment to a consultative and inclusive process that takes into consideration the welfare and economic wellbeing of all affected persons. She further encouraged the traders to begin sensitising their customers on the intended relocation while stakeholder engagements continue.
The discussions also follow a petition submitted by some aggrieved traders of the 31st December Market to the Office of the President regarding activities affecting their operations. The Ministry has since been tasked to review the matter and take the appropriate action in accordance with established procedures.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue, collaboration, and peaceful resolution of concerns in the interest of traders, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and the general public.
