Over 632 members of the Kejetia Petty Traders Association have called on His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II,  President John Dramani Mahama, and the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Dr. Frank Amoakohene, to ensure they are allocated stores in the second phase of the Kejetia Market redevelopment project.

Addressing a press conference in Kumasi, the Chairman and Founder of the association, Mr. Emmanuel Kwarteng, expressed the frustrations of members, stating that despite being original occupants of the old Kejetia Market and making financial contributions to the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), they are still forced to conduct their businesses on the streets under harsh weather conditions.

“We were law-abiding traders who contributed to the development of Kejetia, yet we are now struggling under the scorching sun and rain. We are appealing to the authorities to consider our plight and prioritize us when the allocation of Phase 2 stores begins,” Mr. Kwarteng stated.

Other traders who spoke at the press conference echoed similar concerns, lamenting that their livelihoods have suffered immensely since their displacement. They urged Otumfuo, the government, and city authorities to intervene and ensure fairness in the allocation process, emphasizing their long wait for a permanent place to conduct business.

The traders also called for transparency in the distribution of the new stores, warning against any form of bias or political influence that could deprive them of their rightful spaces.

“We have been waiting for years for an opportunity to return to a decent trading environment. The authorities must ensure that the allocation process is just and transparent,” one of the traders added.

The second phase of the Kumasi Kejetia/Central Market redevelopment project is expected to provide additional modern trading spaces to accommodate displaced traders and improve the overall business environment in the city. However, as the completion date approaches, concerns over fair allocation have intensified, with several trader groups lobbying for inclusion in the process.

The Kejetia Petty Traders Association has vowed to continue engaging relevant authorities until their concerns are addressed, warning that any perceived unfairness could lead to tension and unrest within the trading community.

As the anticipation builds, all eyes are on the government, traditional authorities, and city leaders to ensure that the second phase of the Kejetia Market project truly serves those who need it the most.

For more information contact public Relations of Officer Kejetia Petty Traders Association, Charles Eric knewman sibo

0246308737

By Simon Opoku Afriyie