The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has cautioned traders against paying money to individuals claiming to be registering names for shop allocations at the redeveloped 31st December Material Stores, describing reports of a GH¢10,000 registration fee as fraudulent.
The warning came during an inspection tour of the ongoing four-storey 31st December Material Stores redevelopment project at Makola, where the Mayor assessed the progress of construction works alongside officials of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).
The project, which seeks to replace the old single-storey structure with a modern commercial facility, is expected to provide expanded trading space, improved accessibility and enhanced business opportunities for traders operating within one of Accra’s busiest commercial hubs.
During the inspection, the Mayor reviewed several aspects of the construction, including foundation works, ground-level concrete structures, erected columns and preparations for the installation of elevators that will facilitate movement between the various floors of the building.
Interacting with workers on site, Hon. Allotey urged contractors to maintain the pace of work to ensure the timely completion of the project.
Addressing affected traders after the inspection, the Mayor dismissed claims that the Assembly had authorised any individual, group or task force member to collect money for registration or future shop allocation.
He expressed concern over reports that some persons were demanding GH¢10,000 from traders under the guise of securing spaces in the new facility.
According to him, the AMA has not sanctioned any such arrangement and the registration of names with the Assembly remains free of charge.
The Mayor stressed that neither his office nor the Metropolitan Coordinating Director had approved any payment scheme linked to the recording of names for shop allocation consideration.
He therefore urged traders to disregard such demands and report any individuals engaged in the illegal practice.
Hon. Allotey also reminded traders occupying temporary locations that those spaces were solely interim arrangements and should not be regarded as permanent trading areas or guarantees for future occupation.
The redevelopment project follows months of consultations between the AMA, traders and other stakeholders over relocation arrangements for businesses operating within the project zone.
In July 2026, the Assembly reached an agreement with representatives of the affected traders to facilitate temporary relocation to designated areas, including Rawlings Park and the Community Centre near the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
Under the arrangement, the first phase of the redevelopment is expected to be completed within six months of the relocation exercise, while existing shop owners will be given first consideration in the allocation of shops upon completion of the facility.
The 31st December Material Stores redevelopment forms part of the AMA’s broader agenda to modernise market infrastructure across the capital, create additional designated trading spaces and reduce congestion caused by roadside and pavement trading.
Officials believe the project will significantly improve the business environment at Makola while enhancing orderliness and accessibility within the city’s commercial district.