By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, May 30, GNA – Cattle traders operating along the Kanda–Central Mosque stretch have appealed to the authorities to grant them a short extension to vacate the area.
The traders, who erected wooden cattle pens along the busy roadway ahead of the Eid-ul-Adha festival, said they depended heavily on seasonal sales and require only a brief period each year to dispose of their animals.
Their appeal follows growing public criticism over safety and sanitation concerns associated with the roadside livestock trade.
At a recent sitting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), members expressed concern over the large number of cattle being sold along the Kanda–Kawukudi (Ghana Central Mosque) road corridor, citing potential health hazards and risks to motorists and pedestrians.
The Greater Accra Regional Minister assured the committee that steps would be taken to address the situation.
Efforts by the Ghana News Agency to obtain comments from the Ayawaso East Municipal Assembly were unsuccessful, as the Municipal Chief Executive was unavailable.
Despite the public backlash, trading activities continue under what traders describe as improved safety conditions.
Pavements that were previously occupied by cattle have been cleared, allowing pedestrians easier access.
However, concerns remain over sanitation, particularly the strong odour from cattle waste in and around the wooden pens.
Residents and nearby traders have complained about the unpleasant smell and its impact on the environment.
In response, the cattle traders have appealed for a short grace period to advertise and sell their animals, arguing that there are no designated livestock markets within accessible urban areas.
Mr Musah Bere, a trader, said their presence on the streets was temporary and not intended to flout regulations.
According to him, the cattle were kept on farms outside Accra for most of the year and were only brought into the city during the festive season when demand rises.
“We have only been here for less than 14 days, and it is just for this festive period. After that, we will pack our animals and leave,” he said.
Some traders said the days leading up to Eid-ul-Adha were crucial for their livelihoods.
Mr Ali Aziz, another trader, said failure to sell the animals within the limited period could result in substantial financial losses.
He also urged city authorities and local assemblies to establish designated livestock markets where traders could operate safely without disrupting traffic or creating public health concerns.
“If there is a proper place where people know they can come to buy animals and vehicles can access easily, we will appreciate it,” he added.
Mr Harun Kamaldeen, a livestock trader, said the livestock trade along the stretch was a seasonal activity that typically lasted no more than two weeks each year.
“Every year, we only use about two weeks to sell our cows, and after that, we are no longer on the streets,” he said.
Meanwhile, road users and residents continue to express concerns about the safety and sanitation implications of roadside livestock trading.
They said sections of the road and adjoining spaces had become difficult to access, increasing the risk of accidents and endangering pedestrians.
The residents urged authorities to enforce existing regulations while providing viable alternatives for livestock traders.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe