The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey has assured traders affected by the proposed redevelopment of Makola Market's Shop A and Shop B that government remains committed to a consultative and humane approach that protects livelihoods while advancing development.
The Minister gave the assurance during an engagement with market leaders and traders affected at Makola following concerns raised over the redevelopment exercise and its potential impact on market women and men.
Addressing concerns, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey emphasised that the traders were not opposed to development but were primarily worried about how the redevelopment process could affect their business and daily livelihoods. She noted that government acknowledges the concerns being raised and is committed to ensuring that no one is left worse off as a result of the exercise.
According to the Minister, the engagement formed part of efforts by the government to listen to all stakeholders and build consensus on the way forward. She disclosed that she visited the market on the instructions of the First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Mahama after appeals were made by some traders.
The Minister explained that the Mahama administration remains committed to undertaking development with what she described as " a human face," stressing that government's broader agenda is aimed at improving the living conditions of citizens and reducing poverty and vulnerability. She further indicated that government would continue engagements with all parties involved, including the leadership of the affected traders to address outstanding issues and establish a clear road map for the redevelopment process.
The Minister also appealed to the traders to remain calm and avoid misinformation that could create unnecessary tensions. She cautioned against unverified claims circulating around the exercise, including allegations relating to the allocation and sale of shops, stating that government would work to establish the facts and ensure transparency in the process. 
Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey disclosed that discussions had already begun with relevant stakeholders, including the Mayor of Accra and expressed optimism that continuous dialogue would help resolve the concerns raised by the traders. She reaffirmed government's commitment to sharing the burden of the temporary inconveniences associated with the redevelopment exercise, while calling for cooperation from all affected persons in the collective interest of development and progress.
The Minister assured traders that government would continue to engage them meaningfully to ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns adequately addressed as plans for the redevelopment move forward.
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