Special aide to former President and now President-elect John Dramani Mahama's 2024 campaign, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, has called for an urgent acceleration of efforts to modernize Ghana’s markets following the devastating fire at Kantamanto.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, January 4, Madam Montagri emphasized that although there have been plans in place for years to improve market infrastructure, the pace of progress has been too slow.

“We’ve had plans to modernize our markets for a long time, but the process has not been as swift as it should be. This tragedy at Kantamanto should be a wake-up call for all of us,” she said. She stressed the need for a serious debate on the issue, urging Parliament to take immediate action.

The fire, which destroyed a significant portion of the market, has left many traders without livelihoods, and the economic impact is yet to be fully assessed. She noted the frustration among traders, many of whom no longer trust the banking system and have lost a lot of money in the blaze.

“We can’t even begin to calculate the full extent of the losses. The human cost is immense, particularly for young children who have lost their homes. It’s heartbreaking to think about the facilities needed to rehouse and support them,” she said.

Madam Montagri assured that the new government will prioritize long-term solutions, rather than just offering temporary relief.

“We need more than just handouts. This government is fully committed to implementing a comprehensive approach that guarantees the long-term sustainability of our markets. The Kantamanto fire should act as a catalyst for us to rethink and redesign our market spaces for the future,” she said.

She further pointed to the need for a more sustainable approach, suggesting that the area be redeveloped to create safer, more organized spaces for traders. Madam Montagri also mentioned that the recent change in government could provide a fresh opportunity for meaningful progress.

“Once a new government is in place, I believe there will be new conversations around improving market structures. Former President and now President-elect John Mahama has always been concerned about the state of our markets, and I know this issue is very close to his heart,” she said. She revealed that John Mahama has pledged to immediately begin market enhancement projects, with a team set to assess affected areas like Kantamanto.

“The reality is, these markets are not sustainable in their current form. We cannot continue to let people live and work in such harsh conditions. There are experts who can help develop these environments without disrupting the livelihoods of the people who depend on them,” she noted.

Madam Montagri expressed optimism that the planned improvements will provide long-term relief for market traders. She also emphasized that while immediate support like temporary shelter and financial aid is necessary, the ultimate goal must be the reconstruction and modernization of markets like Kantamanto.

“I believe that this is a turning point for us. People are waiting for change, and we must give them the hope they need,” she concluded.