Community Forum: Asafo Market traders decry economic challenges ahead of Dec polls

With Ghana's 2024 elections approaching, workers at Asafo Market in the Subin Constituency of the Ashanti Region are raising concerns about the soaring cost of living and its toll on their businesses.

Ernest Amoah, a coconut seller, lamented on Channel One TV’s Community Forum how doubled coconut prices—from GH¢4 to GH¢8—are deterring customers, drastically reducing his sales.

Seth Owusu, a printing press operator, highlighted frequent power outages damaging equipment and crippling businesses reliant on electricity. He accused the government of neglecting local businesses in favor of outsourcing contracts abroad.

Trader Melody Opoku blamed the exchange rate for escalating prices, particularly on imports, which she says are alienating customers.

Despite hopes for economic relief before the election, many traders report worsening conditions.