Fresh Trouble for Accra Traders as Mayor Allotey Launches 40-Day Operation

Traders operating along some of Accra’s busiest roads and bus stops are facing another major challenge after the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) began a fresh decongestion exercise aimed at clearing unauthorised trading activities from public spaces.

The exercise, which is being led by Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey, is expected to affect several busy areas where traders have occupied pavements, bus stops and parts of roads to sell their goods.

The latest operation forms part of the AMA’s efforts to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety and restore order in the capital. However, the decision has also raised concerns among traders who depend on these locations to earn their daily income.

The Assembly had earlier given traders occupying unauthorised bus stops 48 hours to vacate the areas before enforcement began. It explained that the presence of hawkers at these locations was preventing commercial vehicles from using designated stopping points and forcing some passengers to board vehicles in unsafe places.

On November 9, the mayor and officials from the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly led a team to the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, where trading items and other belongings were seized from people operating in unauthorised spaces.

Other areas targeted by the enforcement operation include Achimota, Kingsway Bus Stop, Zongo Lane, Kinbu Road, ECG Junction and the stretch from Opera Square to Adabraka.

The AMA has warned that traders who return to cleared locations could face further action, including prosecution under the Assembly’s by-laws.

But the exercise has not been welcomed by everyone. Some affected traders have expressed frustration over the timing, arguing that the operation could affect their ability to make money during the Christmas season, when business activities usually increase.

One trader reportedly appealed directly to President John Dramani Mahama, asking where affected sellers were expected to go after being removed from their usual trading locations.

In an attempt to address some of these concerns, Mayor Allotey has announced a GH¢1,000 Christmas package for traders who comply with the directive and move to approved trading areas.

The Assembly has also stressed that its intention is not to stop people from doing business but to ensure that trading activities do not block roads and public transport spaces.

Another concern that has emerged is the conduct of enforcement officers. During the operation, the Korle Klottey MCE ordered the arrest of a task force officer accused of demanding GH¢100 from a trader. Two other officers were also reportedly interdicted pending investigations.

The development shows that while the AMA wants to restore order in Accra, it must also ensure that the exercise is carried out fairly.