The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has removed unauthorised makeshift structures being rebuilt at Kofikrom, a squatter settlement in Avenor within the North Industrial Area, to pave the way for a planned redevelopment project.
The operation was led by the Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, alongside security personnel and the AMA Task Force following a devastating fire outbreak that destroyed properties and claimed lives in the community.
The structures, made up largely of wooden posts, beams, supporting braces and planks, were being reconstructed in rows, with some partially enclosed and others left without roofs.
The exercise was intended to prevent residents from rebuilding temporary wooden structures and facilitate the construction of permanent block buildings and the provision of essential social amenities.
Speaking during the operation, Hon. Allotey expressed disappointment that some residents had disregarded earlier directives by resuming construction despite assurances that permanent housing would be provided under the planned redevelopment initiative.
He warned residents against erecting new structures in the area, stressing that the Assembly would not permit the continued proliferation of unauthorised wooden buildings, particularly given the history of a fire disaster that resulted in loss of lives and property.
The Mayor disclosed that plans were underway to construct permanent block buildings for affected residents to improve their living conditions and reduce the risk of similar disasters.
According to him, contractors had already been deployed to the site to take measurements and undertake preliminary activities ahead of the commencement of construction works.
He added that the redevelopment project would include the provision of electricity, borehole water and streetlights at no cost to residents.
A tarred one-way access road would also be constructed within the community to improve movement, enhance accessibility and ensure emergency response services could reach the area without obstruction.
Hon. Allotey said the proposed interventions were aimed at transforming Kofikrom into a safer and more organised residential community while addressing the infrastructure deficiencies that had exposed residents to fire outbreaks and other hazards.
By: Bernard Mensah
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