A fire outbreak at the Madina market has prompted Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, leader of the Movement for Change, to pledge a restructuring of retail market infrastructures across the country.
Kyerematen emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare of traders, noting that a large portion of the population is involved in trading or commerce in some capacity.
After parts of the Madina market were devastated by a fire, Kyerematen visited the affected area to sympathize with the traders. He proposed a plan to revolutionize retail market infrastructure by building new market centers nationwide. Kyerematen acknowledged the challenges the government faces in mobilizing resources for market construction and suggested supporting the private sector with incentives to facilitate the building process.
The proposed modern market centers would include amenities such as a daycare center, lorry park, clinic, fire tenders, and restrooms to enhance the livelihood of traders. Kyerematen also highlighted the need for affordable financing options for traders, proposing the establishment of a traders’ bank to provide access to cheap credit and loan facilities.
Traders affected by the fire, including Wofa Yaw and Bertha, expressed support for Kyerematen’s policy and urged Ghanaians to rally behind his vision. Bertha emphasized the urgent need for roofing repairs, especially with the rainy season approaching, and requested additional assistance from the community.
