Election 2024: Trading activities ongoing at Accra central

Some traders in the central business district of Accra were up at dawn to start their daily routine of selling to ensure they could sell their goods and still make it to polling stations to cast their votes.

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The market was already bustling as usual before sunrise, with vendors setting up their stalls to sell everything from fresh produce to clothing, mobile phone accessories and household items. For many, the need to make a living and fulfil their civic duty was equally important.

Grace, a 45-year-old shoe seller, told Graphic Online: “I need to sell my goods quickly this morning.”

“The election is very important and I must vote, but I also need to feed my family. I woke up early to sell before heading to the polls.” Grace was one of many traders determined not to miss the opportunity to participate in the elections.

Yaw, a 38-year-old mobile phone accessory seller, echoed similar sentiments. “By the time my stall is packed up, I’ll head straight to my polling station. I want my voice to be heard,” he said, while adjusting the price tags on his goods. He was not alone in prioritising voting alongside daily work responsibilities.

Other traders shared the same resolve. Samuel, a 52-year-old fruit seller, arrived even earlier, setting out baskets of ripe mangoes and bananas. “I can’t afford to miss a day of work, but the elections are too important. I’ve been doing this for years, balancing my sales and my vote,” Samuel said, as he organised his stand.

Eunice, a young woman selling second-hand clothes, was also busy making sales. “I’m working hard now, but I won’t stay long. Once I finish, I’m heading straight to the polls. It’s a duty I take seriously,” she said, folding clothes as customers haggled over prices.

Adwoa, a bread seller, stressed the importance of voting. “We all have to balance work and voting. As traders, we contribute to the economy, but our voices in the elections are just as vital. We encourage everyone to find time to do both,” she said.

By 7:00 a.m., some of the traders had sold their goods and were packing up to head to their respective polling stations. Despite the challenges of a busy work day, the traders of Accra’s Business Centre showed their commitment to both their livelihoods and the democratic process.

In contrast, the Kantamato market was lifeless. There were no trading activities at the Kantamato when Graphic Online visited the market