AMA to close selected streets in Accra for Christmas trading

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is set to designate selected streets in the metropolis for trading between 6am and 6pm as part of measures to manage congestion during the Christmas festivities.

The arrangement, under an initiative dubbed “Operation Let the Traffic Flow”, is expected to provide traders with designated spaces to sell their goods while ensuring the smooth movement of vehicles and pedestrians.

Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey announced the proposed measures on Saturday, November 7, 2026, during activities marking the November edition of the National Sanitation Day.

He said the Assembly was working with other sister assemblies to accommodate the expected increase in commercial activities during the festive season without allowing trading to disrupt traffic movement.

The initiative, he explained, seeks to balance the livelihood needs of traders with the need to maintain order and accessibility, particularly in the Central Business District and adjoining areas.

As part of the enforcement measures, Mr Allotey directed traders operating at bus stops to vacate the spaces immediately, insisting that the locations were reserved strictly for public transport operations.

He said traders who had appealed for an extension until Monday had been granted additional time to relocate, but warned that goods left at the bus stops after the deadline would be confiscated and donated to a children’s home.

The Mayor clarified that the Assembly was not seeking to drive all traders away from the pavements, explaining that those operating within officially demarcated areas could continue their activities as long as they stayed behind the designated lines.

He urged traders to comply with the directives, saying the measures were necessary to prevent the obstruction of roads, pavements and bus stops and ensure the free movement of commuters during the busy Christmas season.

The AMA says the planned street arrangements form part of its broader efforts to keep Accra accessible and reduce traffic congestion as commercial activity increases towards the end of the year.