Police and Military Oversee Demolition of Kwadaso Onion Market in Ghana Amid Rising Tensions

Officials from the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC), accompanied by armed police and military officers, carried out a forceful demolition of the Kwadaso Onion Market in Kumasi, Ghana. The demolition, which affected hundreds of traders and their sheds, was met with resistance and rising tensions as many traders refused to relocate.

The REGSEC had ordered the onion traders to vacate the premises by April 21, 2024, and move to a new market at Atwima Takyiman, citing security risks posed by the parking of heavy-duty trucks and a recent accident that claimed the life of a 45-year-old woman. However, the majority of the traders were reluctant to relocate, claiming they were not officially notified and given sufficient time to prepare for the move.

Some traders stood in the way of the REGSEC officials, refusing to move and protesting the demolition, as their goods were still in the structures. The situation escalated, prompting the deployment of the Ghana Armed Forces to the market. The affected traders expressed frustration, stating they were under the impression that they would be able to purchase the land and were in the process of raising funds for the purchase.

Why this matters: The forceful demolition of the Kwadaso Onion Market highlights the ongoing challenges faced by informal traders in Ghana and the tensions that arise when relocation efforts are met with resistance. The incident raises questions about the adequacy of communication and support provided to affected traders during such transitions.

The demolition exercise, which was part of REGSEC's plan to relocate the market to the new site at Atwima Takyiman, aimed to address traffic congestion and security risks caused by the heavy articulated trucks parked along the roadsides near the market, officials. Over 2,000 traders were affected by the relocation, with some expressing concerns about the inadequacy of space and potential for increased congestion at the new location. As one affected trader stated, "We were not officially notified of the demolition exercise, and this has caused a lot of frustration among us."

Key Takeaways

• Ashanti REGSEC demolished Kwadaso Onion Market in Kumasi, Ghana on April 22, 2024.
• Demolition affected hundreds of traders, met with resistance as many refused to relocate.
• REGSEC ordered traders to move to new market at Atwima Takyiman, citing security risks.
• Traders claimed lack of official notification and time to prepare for the relocation.
• Demolition highlights challenges faced by informal traders and tensions in relocation efforts.