The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has called on Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, to take immediate steps to either shut down or relocate the growing livestock market operating at Kanda near the National Mosque.
The Committee says the increasing trade in cattle, goats and other animals in the area is raising concerns over sanitation, congestion and the orderly development of the capital.
According to members of the Committee, the market has expanded significantly over the years and is gradually affecting the image and planning of Accra.
Speaking in an interview, Vice Chairman of the Committee and Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Opoku Ansah, described the situation as worrying and criticised authorities for allowing the business to grow unchecked.
“It looks like the place has been turned into a cow-selling centre. In fact, this week, when I passed there, I saw them selling camels,” he stated.
He stressed that the location, which sits in the heart of the capital, should not be allowed to deteriorate into an unregulated livestock market.
“That is the heart of Accra. We have spent money, and at one point, we even had a Ministry in charge of beautifying Accra. Now we are all looking on, allowing this business to grow,” he added.
Mr. Opoku Ansah noted that the activity started on a smaller scale but has rapidly expanded in recent years.
“First, it was about six cows; now, when you go there, you see over 100 cows. They sell goat, cow, and now camels,” he said.
The Committee is therefore urging city authorities and the regional administration to act swiftly to restore order and protect the capital’s urban development plans.
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