Gbese Mantse Warns Against Rebuilding Of Kantamanto Market

Tensions are mounting over the ownership and future development of the Kantamanto lands in central Accra after the Gbese Stool issued a stern warning against unauthorized reconstruction on the property.

The Gbese Mantse, Nii Ayi Bonte II, emphasized during a press conference that the land belongs to the Gbese Stool and is not government-owned. He cautioned individuals against rebuilding illegal structures following the devastating fire that ravaged the Kantamanto Market on 2 January 2025.

The fire, which broke out in the early hours, reduced the bustling market to ashes within hours, leaving traders in despair and halting economic activities in one of Accra’s most vibrant commercial hubs.

Gbese Stool Asserts Ownership

Addressing the media, Nii Ayi Bonte expressed sympathy for the hundreds of traders who lost their livelihoods in the blaze. However, he underscored the Stool’s stance on unauthorized rebuilding, stating, “The land has an owner, so no one should take the law into their hands and build any wooden structures.”

The Gbese Stool plans to collaborate with investors to develop the land, aiming for a transformation that aligns with its vision for the area. To enforce its directives, the Stool has established a task force to oversee the removal of unapproved structures and ensure compliance with its plans.

A History of Contentious Ownership

The Kantamanto lands have been at the centre of a protracted ownership dispute. In 2019, the Korle Stools, represented by Numo Okai I, filed a lawsuit against the Lands Commission, Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), and Yoo Mart Limited. The Gbese Stool joined the suit as an applicant, further complicating the legal battle over the prime urban property.

The situation reflects broader challenges in Ghana’s urban landscape, where traditional land ownership frequently intersects with state and private interests, leading to disputes over control and development.

Traders’ Future in Limbo

While the Gbese Stool’s plans for development may promise modernization, the immediate future of the displaced traders remains uncertain. For decades, the Kantamanto Market has served as a lifeline for many traders, offering a vibrant platform for commerce. The recent fire and subsequent warnings against rebuilding have left traders grappling with both economic losses and an unclear path forward.

Community leaders and stakeholders have called for an inclusive approach that addresses the needs of all parties involved. Balancing the Stool’s traditional authority, the traders’ economic dependence on the market, and the developmental aspirations for the land will be crucial in resolving the crisis peacefully.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com