Market women in Bibiani, a key town in the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region, are appealing to authorities for immediate action to secure a permanent location for their trading activities, following years of instability and displacement.
The traders, primarily vendors of staple foods such as plantain, say their businesses have struggled since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. They were originally moved from the Bibiani market to a temporary site at Lineso to comply with health protocols.
However, a dispute with the landowner at the temporary site forced them to return to their original location—an action opposed by local authorities.
This ongoing conflict has left the traders without a stable or officially sanctioned space to operate. Many report significant losses due to reduced customer traffic, supply chain disruptions, and constant anxiety over potential eviction.
“We just want a place where we can trade without fear,” said one trader. “Every day we come here not knowing whether we’ll be driven away.”
The market women are now urging the Municipal Chief Executive and the area’s Member of Parliament to intervene and secure a permanent market site for them.
They believe a lasting solution would not only protect their livelihoods but also help bring structure and stability to commerce in Bibiani.
