The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey has engaged traders at the Kaneshie Market on planned road closure arrangements ahead of the commencement of works under the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) project on September 7, 2026.

The engagement which took place on Thursday, September 3, 2026, formed part of efforts by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly to keep traders informed and ensure that affected persons understood the purpose of the project before the start of the works.

The Mayor who interacted with market women and other traders who were likely to be affected by the project, assured that any necessary information on the project, including road closure arrangements and possible effects on trading activities, would be duly communicated through the appropriate channels.

He said the Assembly was aware of concerns among some traders over possible relocation, eviction and disruption to business activities as a result of the planned works and urged the traders not to rely on rumours,but to wait for official communication from the Assembly and the relevant implementing agencies.

Hon. Allotey explained that the GARID project was intended to improve drainage, reduce flooding, and enhance resilience in flood-prone parts of the city.

He said the works were important because flooding continued to affect lives, businesses, roads, and public infrastructure in parts of Accra during heavy rains.

The Mayor noted that although the project might come with temporary inconvenience, its long-term benefits would support safer communities, improved mobility, and better protection for businesses operating around the project area.

Hon. Allotey said the Assembly would continue to engage affected stakeholders to reduce anxiety, promote understanding, and ensure a smooth implementation of the project.

He added that traders would not be left in the dark, stressing that any changes affecting their operations would be communicated in good time.

Hon. Allotey urged the traders to keep their surroundings clean, avoid dumping refuse into drains, and support the Assembly’s sanitation and decongestion efforts.

The Mayor encouraged market leaders to help educate their members on the road closure arrangements and the need to comply with directives from city authorities.