Kumasi: Traders decry broken promises over stalled Krofrom Market Project

Traders operating from makeshift structures around the site of the stalled Krofrom Market redevelopment project have expressed deep frustration over what they describe as a pattern of broken promises and deception by authorities regarding the project’s progress.

Despite recent assurances from the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, that work has resumed, a visit to the site on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, revealed no evidence of active construction. The area showed signs of cleared weeds but no contractors, machinery, or ongoing work were visible.

“We have been hearing that work has resumed, but there is nothing happening here,” one trader told journalists. “What we see is just an empty land with weeds cleared—no workers, no equipment, nothing.”

The traders, who continue to operate under umbrellas and on wooden tables, say they are exposed to harsh weather conditions daily, which is affecting their businesses and livelihoods.

“We work under the scorching sun and in the rain. This is not the kind of environment we were promised,” another trader lamented. “If they cannot complete the roofing now, at least they should provide proper flooring to make things a bit better for us.”

Many of the traders also voiced disappointment with city authorities and the government, accusing them of a pattern of “promise and fail.”

“All we hear are promises, but nothing changes. It’s always ‘we will do this’ or ‘we will do that,’ but we don’t see any action,” a trader said.

The development comes despite earlier assurances by President John Dramani Mahama and city authorities that the market would be fully operational by December 24, 2026. However, looking at the current pace of work, the traders remain deeply skeptical.

“Looking at the pace of work now, we don’t believe this project will be completed anytime soon,” another trader added. “There is no hope if things continue like this.”