Ghana's Kejetia Market Clears Debts, Power Restored

Thousands of traders at Ghana's Kejetia Market can finally operate with reliable electricity again after new management cleared years of accumulated power debts. The massive trading center in Kumasi, the largest in the Ashanti Region, had faced disconnections that threatened the livelihoods of countless small business owners.

The Electricity Company of Ghana had cut power to the market after debts piled up under previous management. But when a new administration took over in 2025, clearing those legacy bills became an immediate priority.

"When we came, a chunk of the bill that Kejetia was owing, we've paid all," said Prince Nyarko, the market's operational manager. The move brought relief to shop owners who depend on electricity for everything from sewing machines to refrigeration.

The market now faces only current monthly charges, with recent bills around 1.4 million cedis for January and February. That's a manageable expense compared to the weight of old arrears that had threatened to shut down operations.

The Ripple Effect

This debt clearance does more than just keep the lights on. Kejetia Market serves as an economic lifeline for the entire region, providing income for thousands of families and supplying goods to communities across Ghana.

Management is tackling another persistent problem: illegal power connections that have driven up costs. Their solution is straightforward and fair. Individual electricity meters will be installed in each shop, ensuring every trader pays only for what they actually use.

The challenge has been significant. In the tailoring section alone, over 200 irons run daily without proper billing. Some shop owners had tapped into the grid illegally, creating safety hazards and pushing costs onto honest traders.

Individual metering will end that unfair system. Each business owner will control their own power consumption and costs, making budgeting simpler and eliminating hidden charges from others' unauthorized use.

The transformation shows what happens when new leadership prioritizes solving inherited problems rather than ignoring them. Clearing old debts and installing fair billing systems creates stability that helps small businesses thrive.

Market traders can now plan for the future with confidence, knowing their power supply is secure and their bills are transparent.