Empowering Women Traders: A Success Story from Kejetia Market
In the bustling heart of Kumasi, at the Kejetia market, a remarkable transformation is underway, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the United Traders Forum (UTF) under the STAR-Ghana Foundation Action for Voice, Influence and Inclusive Development (AVID) project.
The initiative, Empowering Women Petty Traders for Sustainable Livelihoods, is making significant strides toward enhancing the lives of 1,000 women traders by improving their access to economic resources, social security, and decent working conditions.
At the core of this project is the empowerment of market women at Adum in the Kumasi Metropolitan area. These women, who form the backbone of the local economy, are being equipped with the necessary advocacy skills to effectively engage with duty bearers in decision-making processes. The goal is to promote accountability and create an enabling environment that allows their businesses to thrive.
One of the major successes of the project has been the engagement with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). Following discussions led by the UTF, the ECG has begun the distribution of 2,000 separate electricity meters to shops within the Kejetia market. This development is a significant step forward in ensuring fair and transparent billing for electricity usage, which has been a long-standing issue for the traders.
In addition to the improvements in electricity distribution, the local assembly has also responded positively to the traders' advocacy. New waste bins have been provided at strategic points within the market, a move aimed at improving sanitation and waste management in the bustling marketplace. This initiative is not only enhancing the cleanliness of the market but also contributing to a healthier environment for both traders and customers.
Ernestina Gyimah, a member of the UTF, expressed her gratitude for the capacity-building sessions provided under the AVID project. "The training has greatly enlightened us on our rights as traders, particularly on issues such as taxation and advocacy. Now, we are able to engage city authorities to put our issues across," she shared.
