The idea of a 24-hour economy could be a solution to Kejetia’s growing congestion, according to Reuben Ameh, Secretary of the Kejetia Combined Traders Association. Speaking to Orange FM’s Alfa Ali, Mr. Ameh shared his views, noting that the market’s current conditions demand a new approach.
He explained that a 24-hour economy would help accommodate more traders without overwhelming the facility. Mr. Ameh says he believes a two-shift system could be the foundation of a functional 24-hour economy at the market. He explained that morning traders could vacate by 7 p.m., allowing night traders to take over.
Mr. Ameh further insisted demand would not be a problem. Drawing from experience during the Central Market demolition, he shared, “As late as 11, 12 midnight, there are these ladies who were always in front of the Central Market. They were selling vegetable, fish and stuff. And it wasn’t that they were not buying from them, they were buying.”
According to Mr. Ameh, a planned 24-hour economy would benefit working individuals who cannot shop during the day.
Transport and Food Systems Support Night Economy
Mr. Ameh suggested a fully operational 24-hour transport terminal to support late trade activities. He noted that Kejetia once ran 24/7, and the city already supports nocturnal activity. “When you get to Kejetia as late as midnight, 12, 1am, you even get chop bars that are cooking,” he said.
He pointed to the Asafo and VIP terminals, where food vendors still serve customers well into the night. A functioning 24-hour economy, according to Mr. Ameh, would not only benefit traders but also support auxiliary services like transportation and catering.
Addressing concerns about the long-term impact of continuous market use, Mr. Ameh clarified that his 24-hour economy idea does not involve running the entire Kejetia Market non-stop but running at least the open spaces for specific periods of the night. “I’m not saying you run the whole Kejetia 24-7. At least a ramp session and a middle session. The open spaces. You could run that.”
He also addressed concerns about infrastructure wear and tear, arguing that the system currently run in the market is overloading the edifice compared to his suggestion. “What we are doing right now is even worse, because you’re overloading the edifice at a particular point,” he argued.
Ameh emphasized that Kumasi traders are resilient and will adapt quickly. He insists the 24-hour economy has always been part of Kejetia’s roots and his proposal is about long-term sustainability and convenience for consumers.
