Poor sanitation conditions at Adjen Kotoku market raise safety concerns

Traders at the Adjen Kotoku Market in Accra have expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the main washroom facility, describing it as unsafe and unfit for public use.

A visit by the Daily Graphic reporters on April 8 to the market revealed that the facility lacked basic features required for proper sanitation.

There were no clear markings to separate male and female sections, while parts of the structure appeared worn out and potentially hazardous.

The condition of the washroom posed a risk, as individuals could easily slip and fall.

The layout was also inappropriate, with toilet and bathing areas combined in the same space.

Despite the deteriorating condition of the washroom, users were charged a fee before using.

An onion seller who asked to remain anonymous called on authorities to address the situation by renovating the existing facility or completing an abandoned washroom project within the market.

She said the current state of the structure not only affected hygiene but also exposed users to accidents.

“The place is not safe. If care is not taken, someone can fall,” another trader said, adding that the poor condition discourages its use.

Another trader also said the absence of resting areas for those who arrive at the market at night to offload goods was a challenge.

She explained that many traders and labourers travel long distances and arrive late, yet have no designated place to rest until morning.

“We need a place where those who come to offload goods in the evening can sleep before daybreak,” she said, adding that providing such facilities would improve working conditions and support trading activities within the market.

Auntie Ama, who is also a trader, said the poor state of the washroom has persisted for some time, despite attempts by authorities to improve conditions.

She revealed that a partially completed washroom project initiated by the government has stalled, raising further concerns.

“The government started building a washroom for us, but it has been left halfway. Now the structure is just there,” she said.

She said as a result, many users now depend on about three privately owned washrooms within the market, which were struggling to meet demand.

Auntie Ama also called on the relevant authorities to prioritise sanitation and welfare infrastructure to improve conditions at the market.

Background

Located in the Ga West Municipality, the Adjen Kotoku Onion Market is a primary hub for onion trading in Ghana.

It was established in 2021 following the decision to relocate traders from the Agbogbloshie Market.

The Adjen Kotoku market attracts traders and transport operators from across the country and the high volume of daily activity places significant pressure on available infrastructure, particularly sanitation facilities.

There is a second onion market, located at Dominase Onion Market,along the Kasoa-Winneba road.

It also serves as a major hub for traders and buyers in the area up to the Central Region.