By Baba Mohammed Issahak
A delegation from the Women’s Caucus of Ghana’s Parliament has visited the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and the Makola Market to engage with traders and reaffirm their commitment to championing the concerns of market women.
The visit, led by the Member of Parliament for Ada and Leader of the Caucus, Comfort Doyoe Ghansah, brought together female MPs from both the Majority and Minority sides of Parliament. Their aim is to listen, learn, and serve as a bridge between Ghana’s lawmakers and the women who drive the nation’s bustling informal economy.
“We are here to identify with you, listen to you, and take your concerns to Parliament,” Hon Doyoe told the traders. “Your voices matter in the decisions we make.”
She emphasised that the Women’s Caucus is dedicated to ensuring that the challenges faced by market women, ranging from infrastructure to safety, are brought to the attention of Parliament and reflected in national policy discussions.
The MPs also encouraged the women to prioritise their health and safety, especially in the high-paced and often crowded environments in which they work.
Welcoming the delegation, the Mayor of Accra, Hon Michael Kpakpo Allotey, commended the MPs for their proactive outreach. He acknowledged the vital role market women play in the city’s economy and assured them of the Assembly’s commitment to resolving their challenges.
However, he also made an appeal for cooperation. “There must be a win-win situation. While the government works to address your concerns, we urge you not to trade in the middle of the roads,” he said.
The market women expressed appreciation for the visit and welcomed the MPs’ assurances, hoping that the engagement would lead to tangible improvements in their working conditions.
