This our office if you sack us we will return – Trader boldly tells AMA

Some traders in Accra's Central Business District have returned to the pavements. This happened just days after a decongestion exercise by the Accra Mayor.

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) started this major exercise on May 20, 2025. Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey reintroduced a red-line initiative from former Mayor Alfred Oko Vanderpuije. However, some traders are ignoring this red line.

One trader explained that the streets are their office and main source of income. She said, “This place is our office. This is where we make a living.” She added that without alternative trading spots, they must return to the pavements.

The trader also mentioned that some AMA officials have family members who trade there too. This makes it hard to keep them off the pavements.

AMA task forces and Ghana Police Service conducted operations to remove stalls and vendors from key areas. They aim to enforce city bylaws and ease congestion for pedestrians and vehicles. This operation will last for two weeks.

Linda Ocloo, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, warned that traders who ignore the decongestion rules will face fines of ₵2000. During her tour of the CBD, she stated they would activate a task force working around the clock.

She explained that they would draw a red line on the road. Crossing this line could result in fees ranging from ₵1500 to ₵2000. Leaders in all markets will monitor compliance alongside the task force.

Traders in Kaneshie and parts of Accra’s CBD are back in unauthorized spaces after this recent exercise. Some told Citi News they lack alternative trading spots.