The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has presented a comprehensive redevelopment master plan for Agbogbloshie Market to the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Akweley Ocloo, as part of efforts to promote orderly urban development, reduce street hawking and improve sanitation across the national capital.
The master plan features over 100,000 stalls, designed to provide safe and regulated trading spaces for traders currently operating on the streets and pavements.
The Ga Mantse made the presentation when the minister paid a working visit to the Ga Traditional Council in Accra yesterday.
Vision
The Ga Mantse explained that the vision was inspired by successful market models such as Kejetia and Asafo in the Ashanti Region.
“Accra can also have something modern, organised and sustainable,” he said.
The Ga Mantse said the visibility studies were independently conducted by the Ga State, which secured an investor, and assembled a consultancy team that toured Agbogbloshie and surrounding areas to assess needs to develop the practical plan.
“We engaged consultants, conducted our own assessments, and put together a realistic plan. Presenting it today creates awareness and opens the door for us to work as a team to address street hawking,” he said.
Community involvement
The Ga Mantse further stressed the importance of community involvement in government-led projects.
“Any development for Accra must involve the people of Accra. Let us assess what residents want and incorporate it. Development must reflect the community’s needs," he said.
The Ga Mantse expressed concern about sanitation conditions in Agbogbloshie, Abossey Okai and Circle, and called for intensified education on cleanliness and improved infrastructure, including streetlights, to enhance safety.
“It is important for all chiefs to reflect on how the Ga State got here,” King Tackie Teiku Tsuru said.
Appreciation
The Regional Minister expressed appreciation to the King for the support, adding that it would help in the orderly development of the community.
She, however, expressed worry over ongoing chieftaincy disputes within the Ga State and appealed for an amicable solution.
Ms Ocloo further announced that her office was rolling out a “Traffic-Free December” initiative, in collaboration with the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), the police and other stakeholders, to ensure safety during the festive season.
“December attracts many visitors; we are working to ensure they enjoy Accra in safety and in comfort,” the minister added.
For his part, the Metropolitan Chief Executive of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, also commended the Ga Mantse, saying “at the start of the year, we sought your blessings.
Today, we have returned to thank you and reaffirm our collaboration”.
The delegation later presented drinks, water and an undisclosed amount of money to the Ga Mantse as custom demands.
