The women, who are primarily market traders, say they are eager to understand Mahama’s plans for their community if he is elected back into office.
“We have struggled through hard times, and we need to know what he has planned for us,” said one trader. “It’s time for action, not just promises.”
The protest comes as Mahama’s campaign team continues its outreach ahead of the 2024 general election. As he has promised policies aimed at uplifting small businesses and empowering women, these traders want assurance that their specific needs will be addressed.
The gathering grew quickly, with women setting up makeshift barriers on the road, chanting slogans, and holding banners as they called on Mahama to meet with them.
The traders’ key demands include fairer market conditions, access to affordable loans, and improved infrastructure around market areas.
A spokesperson from the traders’ group explained that they wanted more direct engagement.
“Every election year, we hear leaders talk about supporting women in trade, but we rarely see changes,” she stated. “Mahama says he has plans for us, so we want him to come and explain them face-to-face.”
Some traders voiced concerns about the economy and their struggles with rising costs. “The price of everything has gone up, but our incomes haven’t,” another trader said.
“If Mahama is serious about helping, he needs to address this inflation that’s affecting our businesses.” The women also emphasized the need for a clear strategy to enhance local businesses, ensuring they can compete in the market without being overburdened by taxes and operational costs.
The police managed to keep the situation peaceful, guiding traffic around the blockade and allowing the women to make their demands heard. As Mahama’s campaign team became aware of the situation, they promised to arrange a meeting to address the traders’ concerns directly, suggesting that he might visit their community soon.
For now, these traders remain hopeful but cautious. They plan to hold Mahama accountable to any commitments made during the meeting.
“We are ready to support whoever will support us,” said a market leader, summarizing the group’s sentiments. “But we will not be taken for granted anymore.”
