Michael Kpakpo Allotey to close Accra CBD roads for Christmas trading

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has announced plans to temporarily close selected roads within the Central Business District (CBD) this December. Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey revealed the initiative, which is designed to create additional trading space for vendors ahead of the Christmas festivities. The temporary closure will specifically affect the busy stretch from the Cocoa Board area to Kantamanto, transforming these vehicle routes into designated marketplaces to accommodate the seasonal influx of shoppers and sellers.

Following a directive from Local Government Minister Mahama Ayariga, the assembly is prioritizing support for traders who do not have permanent shopfronts. By dedicating specific road space to these vendors, the AMA aims to help them maximize their sales during the high-demand festive period. Mayor Allotey emphasized that this move is intended to organize the street trading environment while supporting the livelihoods of small-scale entrepreneurs who typically struggle to find space in the congested capital center.

While the closures are intended to facilitate commerce, the Mayor also issued a stern directive regarding traffic flow and public order. Traders currently operating at bus stops have been ordered to vacate those spaces by Monday. This measure is intended to ensure that while some roads are dedicated to trade, essential transit hubs remain clear for public transport and emergency services. The Mayor noted that the enforcement of these directives is critical to preventing total gridlock as the city prepares for its busiest month.

The announcement was made during National Sanitation Day activities, underscoring the assembly's focus on balancing economic activity with urban management. As Accra prepares for the holiday season, the AMA's strategy represents an attempt to formalize temporary trading zones and improve safety. The assembly expects the move to improve the overall shopping experience while reducing the hazards associated with traders and vehicles competing for the same narrow lanes in the heart of the capital.