Business activity at Makola No. 2 Market in the Greater Accra Region came to a standstill on Thursday, February 26, as traders shut down their shops in protest against what they describe as excessive and unfair rent charges.
The market, one of Accra’s busiest commercial centres, was largely quiet in the early hours of the day as traders staged the demonstration to demand a review of new rental terms imposed on them. The property is owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), which the traders say has introduced a 20 percent charge alongside a significant rent increase.
“The Increase Is Too Much”
According to several traders who spoke to Citi News, many of them have occupied their shops in the facility for more than three decades and feel blindsided by the new financial demands.
One trader explained that last year’s annual rent stood at GH₵25,000. This year, she said, she was informed of an additional GH₵11,000 charge—bringing the total to GH₵36,000.
“We were told there would be an increment, but the figure we received is overwhelming. There has been no renovation or visible improvement to justify this jump,” she said.
Other traders echoed similar concerns, arguing that the cumulative effect of the increase and the additional 20 percent charge could severely strain their businesses, particularly at a time when many small-scale enterprises are already grappling with rising operating costs.
Livelihoods at Stake
The protesters say their action is aimed at drawing the attention of authorities and management to what they consider unsustainable rent conditions. Many fear that if the issue is not addressed promptly, some long-standing traders may be forced to vacate their shops.
Makola Market serves as a key trading hub for textiles, food items, and general merchandise, attracting thousands of customers daily. Thursday’s shutdown disrupted normal commercial activity and affected both traders and customers who rely on the market for daily transactions.
As of the time of the protest, there had been no immediate public response from SSNIT regarding the traders’ grievances. The demonstrators say they are hopeful that dialogue with the relevant authorities will lead to a fair resolution.
Source: Africa Publicity
