Joyce Mogtari Bawah, the special aide and spokesperson for John Mahama’s 2024 presidential campaign, has revealed that the next Mahama-led administration will prioritize upgrading Ghana’s market infrastructure.
This announcement comes in the wake of the devastating fire at the Kantamanto market, which destroyed the businesses of over 30,000 traders.
In an interview on Joy News’ Newsfile with Samson Lardy on Saturday, Mogtari stated, “He [John Mahama] has assured us that the market enhancement project will commence immediately, and the team is set to visit these areas to assess what can be done.”
She emphasized the need for a structured approach to revamp markets across the country. “I told my boss a few days ago that this must become the model for his discussions about enhancing markets in Ghana.”
“If it means revisiting the drawing board or re-demarcating the area to ensure that these parts of the land are designated as sustainable market spaces, then so be it,” she added.
Mogtari further disclosed that Mahama has initiated discussions with the international community to address broader developmental challenges, including enhancing critical sectors such as energy, to strengthen the country’s economic foundation.
The tragic Kantamanto fire, which broke out late Thursday night, not only claimed one life but also wreaked havoc on thousands of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) suspects the blaze was caused either by an electrical fault or an act of arson.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and despair as traders scrambled to salvage their goods while flames engulfed their shops. The incident has reignited conversations about the need for improved market infrastructure to safeguard livelihoods and support economic activities.