By Nadia Ntiamoah
Hundreds of traders in Kasoa have been left stranded following a demolition exercise carried out by the Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly as part of plans to redevelop the Kasoa Old Market.
The early-morning operation affected an estimated 800 traders operating from temporary structures, with several others who conducted business in the area also impacted.
The exercise forms part of a broader urban redevelopment agenda by the Assembly aimed at modernising the market space and improving trading conditions in the long term.
However, the demolition has triggered widespread frustration among affected traders, many of whom claim they were not given adequate notice. While authorities insist prior warnings were issued, some traders argue that the communication lacked clarity regarding the exact timing and scale of the exercise.
The Assembly has directed displaced traders to relocate to the Iron City Market, describing it as a viable alternative. But this proposal has been strongly rejected by many traders, who say the facility is unsuitable for their operations.
Some traders also raised safety concerns, citing a recent flooding incident at the Iron City Market that reportedly led to a tragic death.
Others complain about space constraints, arguing that the market is already congested and cannot accommodate additional traders.
Emotions have also taken a political turn, with some traders accusing local leadership, including the MP, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunnor, of failing to honour campaign assurances.
Several affected individuals expressed disappointment, claiming their livelihoods have been disrupted without adequate support or transition planning.
“I don’t even have up to GH¢1,000 as capital. How can I afford a new space?” one trader lamented, reflecting the economic strain the demolition has imposed on small-scale business operators.
Others, like members of the Kasoa Petty Traders Association, say they have exhausted all avenues—engaging both the Ministry and party officials—without any intervention before the demolition took place.
Despite the backlash, the Assembly maintains that the exercise is necessary to decongest the Central Business District and improve infrastructure. Officials also indicated that measures have been put in place to manage traffic and ensure order during the redevelopment proc29z.wess.
