In a decisive move to reassert spatial order and enhance urban mobility within the central business district of Takoradi, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) has intensified its decongestion exercise around the Takoradi Market Circle. The initiative was the focus of a press briefing held today by Mr. Francis Armah, Sub-Metro Administrator, who addressed members of the local media at the STMA office.
Mr. Armah emphasized that the decongestion effort is not merely an enforcement activity but part of a long-term urban planning strategy aimed at restoring pedestrian access, improving sanitation, and reinforcing the functionality of designated commercial zones. Central to this effort is the relocation of traders operating on pavements and streets to a newly established market enclave near the Paa Grant Roundabout.
“We are calling on all traders and patrons to shift their commercial activities to the new site, particularly as we approach the high-traffic weekend trading days,” Mr. Armah stated. “This is a collective responsibility. The integrity and future of Takoradi’s urban structure depend on disciplined, coordinated action.”
Responding to questions from reporters, Mr. Armah acknowledged resistance from a segment of the trading community, particularly those currently stationed at the Jubilee Grounds. According to him, while the Jubilee Grounds served as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic, its continued use as a market was never intended to be permanent. “The Jubilee Grounds will no longer function as a marketplace. Its purpose must be restored,” he affirmed.
The Sub-Metro Administrator expressed concern about traders who had returned to areas previously cleared by city guards. To that end, he announced the reinforcement of the exercise with a second round of removals commencing this afternoon. Notably, beginning tomorrow, personnel from the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces will be deployed in support of the decongestion initiative.
In an unequivocal warning, Mr. Armah stated that any individual who engages in acts of verbal or physical confrontation with city officials or members of the enforcement team would be handed over to the police. “We are committed to maintaining law and order throughout this process. Tolerance for aggression or intimidation is zero,” he stated.
Addressing concerns about future stall allocations at the reconstructed Takoradi Market Circle, Mr. Armah provided assurances that all traders who have duly registered with the Assembly would be considered. “Registration is not merely a formality; it is the prerequisite for inclusion in our post-construction allocation plans,” he explained.
He further encouraged traders who have not yet relocated to take advantage of the well-demarcated spaces at the Paa Grant Roundabout, emphasizing that the Assembly remains committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive process.
Mr. Armah concluded with an appeal to the public and stakeholders to support the initiative, reiterating the Assembly’s vision of transforming Sekondi-Takoradi into a modern, organized, and hygienic metropolitan centre. “This exercise is not punitive; it is progressive. And it is necessary if we are to elevate the standards of urban life for all residents,” he said.