Traders at the Afful Nkwanta Market in Kumasi have staged a protest against what they describe as an “outrageous” 800% increase in market rates imposed by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA).
The annual market fee, which previously stood at GH¢38, has now surged to GH¢360, sparking widespread anger among the traders.
Speaking at a press conference held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, market leaders expressed their disapproval of the new rate structure introduced by the Sub-Metro, the Financial Committee, and the KMA.
According to the traders, they had not paid market taxes since the retirement of the former collector in 2024. However, they were recently informed by KMA officials that payments would resume—at the newly increased rate—and that they must pay retroactively for 2024 as well.
The Public Relations Officer for the market, Mr. Isaac Adjei, questioned the justification for such a sharp increment. He cited that other markets, such as Asafo Market, which previously paid GH¢96, were allowed to pay the old rate for 2024 before the new rate of GH¢240 was introduced.
Mr. Adjei called on the KMA, Sub-Metro authorities, and the government to engage with traders to clarify the rationale behind the increase. He warned that traders would resist payment until a fair and transparent resolution is reached.
The protesting traders are demanding a review of the new market rates and a more transparent approach to tax collection. They have vowed not to comply with the directive until their concerns are addressed.
Source: modernghana.com
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