The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a four-week ultimatum to some 29 squatters occupying a parcel of land at Mamprobi Sempe to vacate the site to pave the way for the construction of stalls.  

The decision was reached on Friday after a series of discussions with the squatters, at the AMA office to address any concerns and misunderstandings related to their removal from the site.  

The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Elizabeth Kwatsoe Sackey who chaired the meeting, said the new stalls, when completed, would enhance the local economy by providing spaces for small businesses and vendors, to boost economic activity in the area, adding that the construction of the project aligns with the city's broader development goals and efforts to modernise infrastructure.

She assured the squatters of efforts to assist them with a token of GH1000 each to help them transport their belongings to alternative locations. 

She disclosed that to support the squatters during this transition, management of the  AMA had decided to give each squatter the first choice over other applicants who may express interest and at a reduced rate. 

She mentioned that the Ablekuma South sub-metro would also facilitate the permitting process for any squatters to settle down.  

" We must help in developing Accra, we want to uplift the development and construct stalls in every community to boost economic activities.  This is expected to boost economic activities in the area, " she said.  

 She urged the squatters to work together during this transition period to ensure a smooth process while thanking the former Mayor and  Member of Parliament for the Ablekuma South constituency for his support and input during this process. 

The former Mayor, Hon Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije expressed gratitude to the Mayor for her willingness to engage in open and honest dialogue with the squatters, adding that her listening ear and collaborative approach had been instrumental. 

The squatters expressed concerns about the 4-week ultimatum given to them to relocate to another place to ply their trade and used the opportunity to appeal for a 6-month extension to provide them ample time to relocate. 

They promised to remain committed and abide by the decision reached at the City hall to actualize the vision of the AMA in transforming the parcel of Land at Mamprobi Sempe into a modern facility.