Obuasi, Ghana — The Obuasi Municipal Assembly has voted against the immediate removal of containers occupied by traders in the municipality, deciding instead to allow traders to relocate to the proposed 24-hour economy market at Kunka Market once the facility is completed.
The decision was taken during the Second Ordinary Meeting of the Third Session of the Eighth Assembly of the Obuasi Municipal Assembly, where members deliberated on the planned removal of containers and the relocation of affected traders.
During the voting process, nine (9) Assembly Members voted against the immediate removal of the containers, while six (6) voted in favour of proceeding with the exercise.
The decision comes after the Assembly failed to carry out the removal exercise despite issuing several deadlines to traders operating from the containers, including the latest deadline of 21st July 2026.
Members of the Assembly expressed concerns about the possible impact of removing the containers without providing traders with an alternative location to continue their businesses. They emphasised the need for an orderly relocation process that protects livelihoods while addressing urban development challenges.
The Assembly’s position is that traders should first be provided with a suitable trading environment before any removal exercise is undertaken. The planned 24-hour economy market at Kunka Market is expected to serve as the alternative facility where affected traders can relocate and continue their commercial activities in a more organised setting.
The container issue has been a subject of public discussion in Obuasi, with authorities seeking to address challenges associated with congestion, sanitation, and unregulated structures, while also considering the economic importance of small businesses to residents.
The Assembly is expected to continue engagements with traders and relevant stakeholders as work progresses on the Kunka 24-hour economy market.
Stakeholders believe that completing the new market facility and ensuring a smooth transition for traders will be critical to achieving a balance between urban planning, economic activity, and the protection of livelihoods within the municipality.