Greater Accra Market Association endorses AMA’s decongestion drive in Central Business District

Mercy Naa Afrowa Needjan is the President of the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA). She supports the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s (AMA) decongestion campaign. She calls it a “good agenda” that traders should back.

Her comments came after a clean-up and decongestion operation launched on May 20. This initiative involves both the AMA and the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly. It aims to remove unauthorized street trading and reduce traffic congestion. Key locations include Kinbu Road, Railways, ECG Junction, King Tackie Tawiah Statue, Opera Square, and Adabraka.

On JoyNews’ News Desk, Madam Needjan emphasized the need for order in the city. She noted that streets and pavements are increasingly occupied by traders. “We’ve all seen what’s happening on the roads,” she said. There is no parking for vehicles or walkways for pedestrians.

She highlighted that many market facilities in Accra are underutilized. Traders often abandon designated spaces like Makola, Adabraka, Osu, and Circle Markets. They prefer selling on busy streets where foot traffic is higher. “It’s shocking because there are several markets around these areas,” she remarked.

Madam Needjan mentioned that Makola Market is now used for storing wholesale goods instead of serving customers. Traders prepare to sell outside because that's where customers go. “Every trader follows the money,” she explained.

She urged traders to return to markets for better business conditions. These markets are structured to support safe and orderly commerce.

“I’m pleading with the traders,” she said. Many street vendors come from nearby markets like Makola or Adabraka Market, which remain empty.

She believes successful implementation of AMA's efforts will benefit everyone—traders, customers, motorists, and pedestrians alike.

“We want to go inside the market so streets can be clear,” she stated. This would allow cars to move freely and provide proper trading spaces for those on pavements.

Madam Needjan reiterated GAMA's full support for the decongestion campaign. She called on market leaders and traders to cooperate with city authorities. “This is not just about AMA or government; it’s about all of us,” she concluded.