Kasoa Chaos — Bulldozers Roll In, 800 Traders Left Stranded Overnight

It was a brutal wake-up call in Kasoa as bulldozers stormed the Old Market, tearing down structures and displacing hundreds of traders in a move that has sparked anger, confusion, and straight-up heartbreak. The demolition, carried out by the Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly, is part of a planned redevelopment project — but for the nearly 800 traders affected, the timing hit like a shockwave. Many of them insist they were left in the dark. “I didn’t see this coming like this,” one trader said, staring at the remains of what used to be her shop. Others claim the notice was either too short or simply unclear, making it impossible to prepare or relocate in time. Authorities, however, are holding their ground. According to Assembly officials, including Rahman Abdul Mohammed, traders were given prior notice and an alternative trading space at the Iron City Market. But here’s where things get messy — the traders are rejecting it outright. And they’re not mincing words. They describe the Iron City Market as overcrowded, unsafe, and completely unsuitable for their businesses. Some even raised concerns about flooding risks, referencing a recent incident that allegedly claimed a life in the area. For traders like Eric, the situation goes beyond inconvenience — it’s survival. “My capital is not even GH¢1,000. How do you expect me to raise GH¢100,000 for a new stall?” he questioned, frustration written all over his face. He didn’t stop there, calling out political leadership and accusing them of betrayal. Another trader, Akosua, echoed the same energy, saying the demolition felt rushed and insensitive. According to her, promises were made about improving the alternative market, but nothing has changed. Meanwhile, Samuel Fosu, a member of the traders’ association, painted an even tougher picture — overcrowding at the relocation site and zero intervention despite appeals to higher authorities. Behind the scenes, the Assembly says it’s trying to maintain order, especially traffic flow within the Kasoa Central Business District. But on the ground, it’s a different story — one filled with displaced livelihoods, emotional outbursts, and growing distrust. This isn’t just about structures being pulled down. It’s about people losing their daily bread in a matter of hours. As redevelopment plans move forward, one question hangs heavy in the air: what happens to the traders left behind?