Nearly five years after the relocation of traders from the Kumasi Central Market to the Racecourse Market for the commencement of Phase Two of the Kejetia Redevelopment Project, concerns are mounting over the city’s failure to enforce full decongestion of the central business district.

 

The Combined Kumasi Central Market Traders Union and The Great Asanteman Youth Union have jointly appealed to the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and the Mayor of Kumasi, Hon. Agyemang Boadi, to urgently intervene by removing traders who continue to occupy pavements and roadsides within central Kumasi.

 

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According to the two unions, the Racecourse Market currently has numerous vacant stalls, including lockable stores and shared sheds, with a capacity to accommodate about 10,000 traders.

They argue that relocating street traders to the market would not only decongest the city but also enhance trading conditions.

 

Market queens Nana Yaafowaa (Yam Sellers) and Grace Adjei Darko (Fish Sellers) criticised the city authorities for their inaction, despite the mayor’s earlier announcements to clear the central business district.

 

A major concern raised by the traders is the poor road network leading to the Racecourse Market. They described the roads as dusty and unmotorable, particularly during the rainy season, which discourages customers from visiting the area.

This, they claim, has forced many traders to return to areas such as Kejetia, Adum, and Dr. Mensah to do business.

 

The unions also accused city authorities of failing to address basic infrastructure needs at the Racecourse Market. They warned that unless these issues are resolved, they may have no option but to reoccupy the streets alongside their colleagues.

 

In addition, the traders are demanding explanations from former KMA Mayors, Hon. Osei Assibey Antwi and Hon. Samuel Pyne, regarding the $4 million compensation package that was promised to them following their eviction from the Kumasi Central Market.

 

According to the unions, investigations suggest that the funds have been disbursed, yet traders have not received a pesewa. They suspect that the money may have been misappropriated and are calling for accountability.

They further appealed to city authorities to regulate the conduct of commercial drivers who allegedly exploit passengers by charging exorbitant fares for short distances, particularly for trips heading towards the Racecourse Market.

 

The unions are urging government and city authorities to fast-track the start of Phase Three of the Kejetia Redevelopment Project and improve infrastructure at the Racecourse Market. This, they believe, would ensure a safer, cleaner, and more efficient trading environment in Kumasi.