Women MPs engage Makola traders, promise to take their concerns to parliament

The Women’s Caucus in Parliament has reached out to market women in Accra as part of a direct effort to build stronger ties with women in the informal sector. The group visited the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and the Makola Market to assure the traders of their unwavering support and to listen to their concerns.

The caucus, made up of female Members of Parliament from both the Majority and Minority sides, explained that the initiative was aimed at closing the gap between lawmakers and market women, who are central to Ghana’s economy.

Comfort Doyoe Ghansah, MP for Ada and Leader of the Caucus, emphasized the importance of hearing directly from the traders so their voices can be represented in policymaking.

“We are here to identify with you, listen to you, and take your concerns to Parliament. Your voices matter in the decisions we make,” she stated.

She also reminded the women to prioritize their health and safety in their daily work.

The MPs said they hoped the visit would not only encourage the market women but also serve as the beginning of regular engagements with women in the informal economy. They stressed the need for inclusive governance that considers the specific needs of women who form a large portion of the country’s workforce.

The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who welcomed the MPs during their visit to the AMA, applauded the Women’s Caucus for the thoughtful move. He acknowledged the essential role market women play in local commerce and reiterated the city’s commitment to addressing their concerns.

However, he also raised concerns about illegal street trading and urged traders to avoid selling in areas that block public roads.

“There must be a win-win situation. While government will address your concerns, we also urge you not to trade in the middle of the roads,” he advised.

The visit forms part of ongoing efforts by the Women’s Caucus to connect Parliament more closely with communities and ensure that women’s contributions and challenges are fully recognized in national discourse.