Tension is mounting in Cape Coast as traders have staged a protest against the reported relocation of a proposed 24-hour economy market project, a development they say threatens their livelihoods and disrupts earlier agreements.
The aggrieved traders, made up of market women, shop owners, and informal sector operators, took to the streets to express their dissatisfaction, calling on authorities to reconsider the decision. Carrying placards and chanting slogans, they argued that the original site selected for the project was more accessible and strategically beneficial to their businesses.
According to the traders, the relocation decision was taken without adequate consultation, leaving many of them feeling sidelined in a project that is intended to improve their economic prospects. They insisted that the initial plan had been widely accepted and that any sudden change undermines trust between stakeholders and project implementers.
The 24-hour economy market initiative forms part of broader national efforts to boost productivity, create jobs, and stimulate economic activity by encouraging round-the-clock business operations. However, the traders fear that moving the project to a different location could reduce customer traffic and negatively impact sales.
Some of the demonstrators also raised concerns about infrastructure at the proposed new site, questioning whether it would offer the same level of convenience, security, and accessibility as the original location. They warned that any decision that does not prioritise their welfare could lead to long-term economic setbacks for small-scale traders in the area.
Leaders of the group are therefore appealing to government officials and local authorities to engage them in dialogue and reconsider the relocation. They emphasised that inclusive decision-making is crucial to the success of such a major economic initiative.
Authorities are yet to issue a detailed response to the protest, but the situation highlights growing concerns among local traders about transparency and stakeholder involvement in development projects.
The outcome of the standoff is expected to have significant implications for the implementation of the 24-hour economy policy in the region, as well as the relationship between policymakers and grassroots business communities.
