Linda Ocloo: Regional Minister assures Kanda Highway livestock traders will vacate area by Saturday
The Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo, has assured residents that livestock traders operating along the Kanda Highway and nearby street medians in Accra will vacate the area by Saturday, May 30, following growing concerns over congestion, sanitation and urban order ahead of Eid-ul-Adha celebrations.
The assurance comes after the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council temporarily authorised the sale of livestock along portions of the Kanda enclave and selected medians in response to requests linked to the annual Eid-ul-Adha festivities, during which demand for rams and other livestock typically surges.
Speaking during an engagement with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) and the media in Accra, Madam Ocloo acknowledged public concerns surrounding the trading activity near the Kanda National Mosque, insisting that the arrangement was only a short-term measure intended to accommodate seasonal traders.
She explained that authorities had engaged opinion leaders and traders after concerns were raised by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) regarding sanitation, traffic congestion and the use of public spaces for commercial activity.
“Honestly speaking we gave them up till Friday so hopefully we can assure you that by Saturday, the place will be cleared,” she stated.
The Minister disclosed that the traders had already begun fencing portions of the trading area to contain the activity and prevent animals from straying onto the roads and adjoining public spaces.
According to her, the Regional Coordinating Council has also directed the Municipal Chief Executive to identify a more suitable and organised location for future livestock trading activities during festive seasons to avoid a recurrence of the situation.
“We met the opinion leaders, and they pleaded with us. We have also directed the MCE that next time, they should find a nice place for them to display their livestock,” she said.
Madam Ocloo further indicated that she would personally inspect the area together with officials on Friday to ensure that traders honour their commitment to clear the enclave before the weekend.
“We will make sure that the place comes back to its normal state,” she stressed.
The seasonal livestock market, which sprang up ahead of Eid-ul-Adha celebrations, attracted heavy patronage in recent days but also generated criticism from some residents and city authorities over its impact on sanitation and the aesthetics of the capital.
