Every stall in Accra’s Kantamanto Market is set to be connected to safe, legally installed electricity as part of a comprehensive redevelopment plan aimed at reducing fire risks and improving working conditions for traders.
The announcement was made during a town hall meeting on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the forecourt of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), where stakeholders including market authorities, technicians, and development partners outlined key components of the project.
“We are committed to ensuring that the rebuilding of Kantamanto Market is not only about physical restoration but also about creating a safer, more sustainable environment for all of its traders.
“This electrification project is just one of the ways we are supporting the market’s recovery. Equal access to electricity is essential for vendors who rely on it for fans, phone charging, and other daily operations,” said Branson Skinner, co-founder of The Or Foundation, the charity funding the entire electrical installation as part of its fire relief efforts.
The AMA also pledged its full backing, emphasizing that the land remains government property and that no private organization can purchase it.
“Kantamanto is government land, and no NGO can buy it. Our focus is on improving the working environment and collaborating with stakeholders,” said Deputy AMA boss Mantey, who also revealed plans to deploy security personnel to further enhance safety in the market.
Market Manager Atta Manu highlighted the technical demands of the project, noting that careful planning will be key to its success.
“We need to engage technicians to map out the entire system,” he said. “Once the work begins, any substandard wiring will be replaced to prevent future fire hazards.”
