The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has held talks with officials from the United States Embassy in Ghana to discuss urban development priorities, market restructuring, and investment opportunities in the capital.
The meeting, which took place on Sunday in Accra, focused on the Metropolitan Assembly’s (AMA) ongoing initiatives to modernise markets, improve mobility within the city, and strengthen transparency in public procurement to attract international investors.
According to the Mayor, recent reforms have strengthened procurement processes within the Assembly, making it mandatory for contracts to go through open advertisement and competitive bidding in line with the law.
He outlined how funds from the District Assemblies Common Fund are now tied to specific development priorities, including sanitation, education, health, and infrastructure.
The mayor disclosed that AMA has received about GH₵23 million, representing its share of the 2025 allocation, which is being used to implement targeted programs, including the establishment of 24-hour markets and the expansion of employment opportunities.
“We are focused on relocating traders from roadsides into well-structured, affordable markets to decongest the city and improve traffic flow,” the mayor said.
The Assembly is developing mini-markets and redeveloping major trading hubs, such as Salaga Market, Makola Market, and the London Market, with plans to include modern facilities like health centres, security posts, and organised trading space.
The meeting also discussed transportation reforms, including the introduction of a city-based metro bus system, electric buses, and restrictions on vehicle access to parts of the Central Business District during rush hours.
The Political Officer at the US Embassy, Michael Kmiecinski, said the US has expressed interest in partnering with AMA, which will create opportunities for American companies to participate in development projects.
Faustina Naa Ayele Johnson- ISD
