Madam Rose Abrefi Mensah, known as the Plantain Queen of Tema Community One Market, has raised concerns over the prevalent practice of selling food items on the ground and called on the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) to take action to prevent it.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Madam Mensah expressed worry about the sight of numerous traders displaying their goods on the ground, particularly along the roadside, to attract customers. She emphasized the importance of discouraging such practices and urged the TMA to intervene by enforcing regulations and confiscating items from non-compliant traders.
Madam Mensah, speaking on behalf of market queens, expressed their readiness to ensure that goods are properly displayed on tables. However, she highlighted the challenge they face in enforcing this when the assembly appears indifferent and only collects tolls from traders.
She underscored the health risks associated with selling food on the ground, especially during the rainy season when contaminated rainwater can transmit diseases such as cholera and typhoid. Additionally, she mentioned the financial strain on market operators who must hire labourers to clean the market and dispose of refuse.
The Ghana News Agency observed that various food items, particularly fruits and vegetables often consumed raw, were displayed on sacks and baskets on the ground at Kwasiadwaso, extending from behind the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) Greenwich towards the main lorry station on both sides.
Madam Mensah's appeal highlights the urgent need for the TMA to address this issue to safeguard public health and ensure proper hygiene standards in the market.