Kejetia Market Overcrowded by 37 Percent Raises Structural Concerns
Ghana's Kejetia Market, designed for 8,700 traders, now houses 12,000, an increase of 37%. The Federation of Kumasi Traders reports this overcrowding, along with five years of neglected maintenance, is weakening the market's structure. Areas meant for emergencies are now trading spots. This situation threatens the safety of over 21,000 people and impacts the local economy.
The Federation of Kumasi Traders reports that Kejetia Market faces serious structural issues. This is due to many more traders than the market was built for. It is also because the market has not been maintained for five years.
The market was made for 8,700 traders. Now, 12,000 traders use it. This is 3,300 more traders, a 37% increase. This extra number puts great stress on the building.
Spaces that were for emergencies are now trading areas. Parts meant for food stalls are also used for other business. This makes the market unsafe, especially if there is a disaster.
The market has not had proper fixes since a private company stopped managing it five years ago. Metal beams are rusty. Staircases are worn out. Drains are blocked. Equipment needing solar power is now broken.
The Federation warns that if nothing changes, over 21,000 people who use the market could be in danger. They want quick action from leaders to avoid a crisis. This situation affects many jobs and the local economy in Kumasi.
Source: StatsGH — Ghana's data-driven news platform