STMA Introduces On-Street Market to Boost Local Trade

Sekondi-Takoradi, Oct. 17, GNA – The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) has announced the introduction of an on-street market, set to begin on October 18, 2025, as part of efforts to enhance local commerce and create additional trading spaces for vendors.

A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) indicated that the on-street market would operate every Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. along designated road stretches, including Ahenfie Hotel, Port Quarters, Baptist, and Zenith areas.

The Assembly urged traders and consumers to strictly observe all regulations and safety protocols associated with the market days to ensure smooth operations and the sustainability of the initiative.

However, public opinion on the project remains divided. Some traders and residents who spoke with the GNA expressed concern that the move might worsen sanitation issues and traffic congestion.

Madam Emelia Mensah, a teacher, questioned the decision, saying: “But what happened to the market they created at the Paa Grant Roundabout? I see it empty all the time…they should rather occupy that.”

Similarly, Mr Nurudeen, a resident, voiced fears about possible waste management challenges. “I am afraid our street is going to be full of filth in no time,” he said, recalling how “the Jubilee Park was destroyed by a similar hurried decision during the COVID time.”

He urged the Assembly to reconsider the plan and prioritise completing or rehabilitating existing market structures to provide a more sustainable trading environment.

The STMA has yet to respond to the concerns, but sources indicate that the initiative is part of broader efforts to decongest the central business district and support small-scale traders with accessible trading spaces.