The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is planning to build a residential complex of single-room units for residents of Kofikrom, a squatter settlement at Avenor in the North Industrial Area, after a fire destroyed several makeshift structures.
Mayor of Accra Michael Kpakpo Allotey said the development would replace the community’s mainly wooden buildings with permanent block structures and provide a safer, cleaner and more organised environment.
The proposed project, which is expected to receive support from corporate institutions, would also include streetlights, walkways, improved sanitation facilities and tarred access roads.
Mr Allotey announced the plans during a visit to inspect the ongoing removal of debris from the settlement. The fire also affected adjoining industrial facilities, including parts of Duraplast.
He told residents that the accommodation would be provided free of charge and would not be rented or sold to those selected to live there. He also stressed that the land remained the property of the government.
Drawing on his own experience of growing up on the streets, Mr Allotey said his background had helped him understand the challenges faced by vulnerable people and residents of deprived communities.
“We all we dey a street top. The reason why I’m not scared of the street. I’m coming from the street. And the street never forgets,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to improving living conditions in the affected area.
The redevelopment would consist of rows of single-storey buildings, with each resident receiving an individual room. Corporate partners would be approached to help provide roofing materials, street lighting, walkways and other essential infrastructure.
Mr Allotey warned that residents would not gain ownership rights over the new facilities. No individual or group would be allowed to sell, rent out or take unauthorised control of any part of the development.
He also said drug abuse, the sale of illicit substances and activities linked to gang leadership would not be permitted in the redeveloped community. The project, he added, was intended to support discipline, security and peaceful coexistence.
As the plans progress, residents have been instructed to choose five representatives to act as a liaison with the Assembly during consultations and the implementation process.
The mayor expressed confidence that construction could be completed within a relatively short period because the proposed buildings would be straightforward, single-storey structures rather than complex multi-level developments.
