The Gbese Stool, led by Paramount Chief Nii Ayi Bonte II, has issued a stern warning against the construction of wooden structures on the Katamanto lands, stressing that the property belongs to the Gbese Stool and not the government.
At a press conference held to address recent developments, Nii Ayi Bonte II reaffirmed the Gbese Stool’s ownership of the land and outlined plans to partner with investors to transform the area into a modern development hub.
The chief expressed deep sympathy for victims of the devastating fire that swept through the Kantamanto Market in Accra during the early hours of January 2, 2025. The fire left hundreds of traders in despair as they struggled to cope with the loss of their livelihoods. Kantamanto Market, renowned for its bustling energy and wide variety of goods, was reduced to ashes in just a few hours. The aftermath revealed a scene of heartbreak and chaos as traders sifted through the remains of their stalls, searching desperately for anything salvageable.
In the wake of this tragedy, some individuals began constructing makeshift wooden structures on the Katamanto lands, an act the Gbese Stool has described as illegal and unacceptable. Nii Ayi Bonte II firmly warned against such unauthorized activities, stating that the Gbese Stool has plans to develop the land in collaboration with investors starting in April. The chief emphasized the need to prevent any actions that could hinder these development efforts, particularly unapproved rebuilding activities.
“The land has an owner, so no one should take the law into their hands and build any wooden structures. We will not accept this attitude again. That is why we are having this press conference to inform everyone that we are bringing in investors from April to change the place,” Nii Ayi Bonte II declared. He urged those who have erected unauthorized structures to dismantle them immediately, cautioning that a task force would soon be deployed to enforce compliance.
To ensure that the Gbese Stool’s directives are upheld, a task force has been established to oversee the removal of unapproved structures on the Katamanto lands. The task force will monitor activities in the area and take decisive action against any attempts to construct illegal buildings. The chief underscored the importance of adhering to these measures to protect the integrity of the land and facilitate its planned development.
While addressing the media, Nii Ayi Bonte II expressed his condolences to the traders affected by the fire, acknowledging the immense challenges they face in rebuilding their businesses. However, he maintained that unauthorized construction on the Katamanto lands would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The fire at Kantamanto Market has sparked widespread concern and sympathy across Accra, as the market is a vital economic hub for countless traders and their families. Many of the traders had invested their life savings into their businesses, and the loss of their stalls has left them grappling with uncertainty about their future. The disaster has also highlighted the need for improved fire safety measures and infrastructure in market areas to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Gbese Stool’s decision to partner with investors to develop the Katamanto lands marks a significant step towards revitalizing the area and creating new opportunities for economic growth. According to Nii Ayi Bonte II, the planned development will maximize the land’s potential and utility, transforming it into a space that benefits both the community and the city at large. The chief urged all stakeholders to support these efforts and respect the Gbese Stool’s authority over the land.
The planned collaboration with investors is expected to bring about a range of developments, including modern infrastructure and facilities that cater to the needs of traders and the surrounding community. By leveraging the land’s strategic location and economic significance, the Gbese Stool aims to create a thriving commercial hub that enhances the livelihoods of local residents.
As the task force prepares to take action against unauthorized structures, Nii Ayi Bonte II’s message serves as a clear reminder of the Gbese Stool’s commitment to protecting its lands and promoting responsible development. The chief’s stance reflects a broader vision for the future of the Katamanto lands—one that prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and collaboration.
In the coming months, the focus will be on ensuring that the Katamanto lands are cleared of all unapproved structures and prepared for the planned developments. The Gbese Stool has called on all individuals and groups involved to cooperate fully with its directives and support the vision for a transformed Katamanto.
The recent events underscore the challenges faced by communities in balancing immediate needs with long-term goals. For the traders affected by the Kantamanto Market fire, rebuilding their lives will require significant support from both public and private sectors. Meanwhile, the Gbese Stool’s efforts to develop the Katamanto lands highlight the importance of maintaining clear ownership and management of resources to ensure their optimal use.
As the situation unfolds, the Gbese Stool remains resolute in its determination to enforce its authority over the Katamanto lands and implement its development plans.
With the support of the task force and collaboration with investors, the vision for a revitalized Katamanto is poised to become a reality, offering new opportunities for growth and prosperity in the heart of Accra.
